Babes in the wood 25
The last of the Babes in the Wood session for this programme took place today.
As a little thank you to the woods, we scattered grass and wild flower seed around the area in which we had our log circle over the past few months. After dancing the seed into the ground we walked down to the river for the ”Pretty pink flowers” story which is the precursor to balsam bashing.
Just as with last Summer, it amazes me just how much balsam clearing can be achieved by a group of mums and toddlers, imagine if we had more, more toddlers, more time, maybe a goat or two!
As people grew tired or bored of the activity they drifted back to the fire circle for snacks and drinks.
We then went on a mushroom hunt and spotted some fine specimens under a tree. With the aid of some clay, a few sticks and a bit of paint, the children and some mums (you know who you are!) made their own mushrooms to take home.
This may be the last BIW for this programme but with new enquiries, greater attendance, growing interest, I just know that we will find a way to continue.
In Joseph Cornell’s book “sharing nature with children” there is a wonderful image of the man himself striding out with just a bag containing the essentials, surrounded by children intent on enjoying whatever they come across outside.
This is just one model for continuing the BIW sessions and as it is not reliant on funding, is one I hope to adopt in the new term.
Thank you to all of the mum’s (and by that I do of course mean carers, dad’s, aunties, uncles, grandparents, fathers and child minders) and the children who have made this programme so much fun and so rewarding to be a part of.
We WILL see you soon.