This week, we embraced the beauty of spring through a variety of engaging activities, from outdoor adventures to creative crafts and meaningful discussions.
Adventure Walks 🚶♂️🦆🌿
We have had many adventure walks throughout the week, soaking in the fresh air and the signs of spring. On one of our walks, we observed ducks paddling in the water, newly hatched eggs and fluffy chicks, and even a majestic grey heron standing tall by the pond! The highlight of the walk was running up the hill and joyfully sliding and rolling back down, with lots of giggles along the way. We also took time to enjoy the blue sky and the colourful flowers blooming all around us, making our nature walks feel truly magical.
Kind Hands and Words ❤️👐🗣️
This week, we have been focusing on using kind hands and kind words. We read The Colour Monster books to help us explore different emotions and understand how we feel and why. Every morning during circle time, we check in with how we’re feeling, and it’s been wonderful to see children express themselves more confidently. We’ve had lots of big feelings this week, and sometimes our little ones don’t quite know how to put them into words—but with support from a forest educator or an older friend, they are learning to recognise and share their emotions in a positive way.
Counting with Flowers and Numbers 🌻🔢
Our counting skills bloomed this week as we matched different amounts of flowers to their numbers. Some children challenged themselves even further by subitising and adding or subtracting 1 or 2 flowers. Along the way, we spotted familiar springtime blooms like daffodils, daisies, and sunflowers, which made the activity even more exciting. It’s been lovely to see the children grow in confidence as they use their number skills in fun, hands-on ways!
Gardening Shop 🏡🌿💰
Our pretend Gardening Shop was full of excitement as the children took turns being shopkeepers and customers. They carefully selected items such as magnolia petals, pinecones, and shovels, engaging in lots of imaginative conversations along the way. Through this role play, they practised communication, turn-taking, and problem-solving while having a fantastic time!
Hapa Zome – Flower Bashing 🎨🌺
We explored the beauty of nature through Hapa Zome, a Japanese-inspired art technique where flowers and leaves are gently hammered to release their natural dyes. Using camellia flowers and a variety of leaves, the children created stunning patterns on fabric, observing the different colours and textures up close. It was a fascinating process that encouraged creativity and an appreciation for nature.
Origami Flowers ✂️🌷🎭
Inspired by the flowers blooming around us, we made our own origami flowers! The children chose their favourite colours, practised their cutting skills, and carefully folded their paper to create beautiful floral designs. It was wonderful to see their focus and pride in their creations, as they worked carefully to bring their flowers to life.
Clay and Leaf Prints 🍃🖌️
Using clay, we experimented with making leaf prints, pressing different shapes and textures into the soft surface. The children were fascinated by the intricate patterns left behind and enjoyed comparing the different leaf imprints. This sensory activity encouraged curiosity and fine motor skill development while connecting us to the natural world.
Swinging Fun 🌞🎡
The swings have been a favourite spot this week! The children have been strengthening their legs by pushing themselves higher and practising the back-and-forth motion needed to swing independently. It’s been fantastic to see them challenge themselves and experience the joy of movement in the fresh outdoor air.
A fantastic week filled with adventure, creativity, and learning—well done, everyone!
Little Forest Folk
Chiswick