Bush Craft

As it had been a bit windy Mr Hemingway asking the children to help tidy up the woodland area. He carefully explained that the children needed to look for branches that had fallen down and then prop them up against the tree trunk. He asked the children what they needed to do to be safe when carrying something heavy. This led to a discussion about how it’s important to work as a team and share the weight, talk about what you’re aiming to do and listen to each other.

As the children went off to collect the branches it was clear to see the respect the group of Reception children had for each other while working in a team. As the children worked away co-operatively Mr Hemingway helped children learn how to identify the different types of trees and the qualities their branches had.

Next Mr Hemingway said that we should have some hot chocolate on the campfire. The children knew that for this to happen they needed to collect some sticks to add to the fire and keep it going. Off they went to find some!

After a little while Reception had the opportunity to lead in their own play. Some decided to challenge themselves by climbing up a steep muddy slope and then feel the thrill (if they reached the top) of sliding down! Others were making up their own games, making leaf monsters or others were looking at their natural finds. What I loved about their time outside was that they had the freedom to roam across the area and be outside with no pre-planned learning outcome. Yet the learning through play and life long skills being developed was of the richest form. Through the regular visits to the woodland area the children learn to face their own worries (like being near the campfire smoke or even getting muddy!) and I heard one girl say in excitement “I can do it now!” then referring to her ability to get to the top of a steep slope.

As we sat down and had our campfire, and made their hands into love hearts around their hot chocolate, it was lovely to hear the children chat away to their friends.