Outdoor learning and play is a key part of childhood whether that’s jumping in mucky puddles, planting seeds and watching them grow, enjoying time at a park, art activities such as bark rubbing, collage with natural materials or building dens these activities all contribute to a child’s learning and development, physically, mentally and socially.
Examples of some of the benefits are detailed below:
- Develop resilience
- Learn to share
- Develop physical abilities e.g. stamina, motor skills,
- Improves sleep patterns
- Develops language
- Improves imagination
- Develops senses through touch, smell taste etc.
- Builds confidence
North Ayrshire Council Ranger Service - Junior Rangers
The North Ayrshire Council Junior Rangers is a Junior Ranger Scheme is open to North Ayrshire residents aged between 11 and 18.
Activities usually take place about once a month and follow these key principles;
- delivered primarily by Countryside Rangers working with local partners
- providing opportunities to develop transferable understanding and experience of the Ranger profession
- demonstrating benefits to the local natural and cultural heritage
- comprising a programme of meetings focusing on environmental awareness, skills development and citizenship
- providing enjoyable, inspirational and relevant outdoor learning experiences.
You can find out more by contacting eglintoncountrypark@north-ayrshire.gov.uk
Scottish Wildlife Trust - Irvine Wildlife Watch Group
The Scottish Wildlife Trust run a group for children aged 8 – 11 years old that engages them in nature based activities around their nature reserves in North Ayrshire.
From outdoor games to nature crafts and mini-beast hunts – this group is for kids to get outside, have fun, and explore!
The Irvine Wildlife Watch Group is an ideal way of introducing nature to your children and getting them physically active as they learn all about their local environment. It is important for children to experience nature from a young age as it not only benefits their health and wellbeing but creates a sense of protection of our Greenspaces in North Ayrshire.
Irvine Wildlife Watch takes place on the 3rd Saturday of the month, 10am – 12pm.
If you would like to find out more, or book a place, please contact the group by email on irvinewildlifewatch@gmail.com they’d love to hear from you!
Arran COAST
Based in Lamlash, Arran COAST (Community of Arran Seabed Trust) is a community organisation working for the protection and restoration of the marine environment around Arran and the Clyde. COAST is recognised worldwide as one the UK’s leading community marine conservation organisations.
They offer a range of events and activities in and around Lamlash Bay including the hire of activity backpacks and snorkelling sessions.
The COAST Discovery Centre is suitable for visitors of all ages and entrance to the exhibition is free!
Opening times:
7 days a week from 10am – 4pm.
For more information call 01770 600 656 or visit: www.arrancoast.com
