We have rebranded Into the Woods and changed up the content of this group. It is now called Little Explorers, and we go to even more exciting places to play and learn. Parents and their children join us to different spaces including the beach, canals, orchards and woods. Our outdoor learning sessions have become an important part of Dr Bell's family support efforts since the Covid pandemic and continue to provide our families with unique and hugely beneficial attachment, educational and social opportunities. Funding has helped us buy resources to have fun in these new places. Families can take part in a range of fun activities including bug hunts, sandcastle building, mud kitchens, and den building
We have met the following outcomes with Little Explorers:
To support families understanding of how being outdoors promotes positive mental health and wellbeing.
Parents reported to us how they felt better in the fresh air and that their little ones have endless possibilities to explore and be creative.
Support families to build confidence in outdoor play and learning.
Parents shared how they had discovered new places to take their little ones in Leith, such at St Mark's Park. We encouraged everyone to get stuck in and not worry about getting messy by providing wellies and waterproofs.
Allow families to participate in a range of opportunities, while promoting equality for all.
Our sessions are free and booked through Eventbrite so they are available to all families in Leith. We used pictorial sheets to help translate concepts to parents and children who spoke different languages.
Provide social opportunities for families to reduce the risk of isolation.
Parents in our groups created an amazing friendly and supportive space, and often swapped phone numbers to keep in touch.
"We don’t have a garden so stuff like this is great."
- 75% of participating parents reported reduced isolation by meeting other families.
- 100% of participating parents said they felt more confident with outdoor play and learning.
- 100% of participating families continued to explore outdoor areas after attending this group.
"I’ve been looking for a group like this to get her to socialise with other children around her age, she’s very independent and I want her to be able to play and talk to other children so I’m glad she is talking to the other children."
