Surfleet forest school helps children get back to nature
Enjoying the great outdoors is good for us – both physically and mentally – and now more people are being encouraged to get back to nature by Amanda Klopper, who has launched her own forest school in Surfleet.
Amanda has always been passionate about nature and wildlife and is determined to get more people – young and old – exploring everything the local countryside has to offer.
She launched Mater Natura Forest School in Glen Park, Surfleet, earlier this year but had to pause her venture due to coronavirus restrictions.
To her delight, sessions are up and running again and include activities for toddlers, children and home-education groups, which are all proving incredibly popular.
“I’ve always been passionate about nature,” says Amanda, who previously worked at Little Oaks Nursery, in Spalding.
She said: “I’ve travelled from Scotland to Cornwall, going through all the different woodlands, exploring all the different species of trees.
“It was my vision to set up a forest school so I could teach children all about the natural world.
“The sessions are all very much child-led – I try to include things that they are interested in, things like dinosaurs or princesses – as that is what helps them make that connection to nature.”
Amanda’s forest school activities include bug hunts, leaf printing and other forms of nature art, as well as campfire cooking and using tools.
She also runs night-time nature walks and is hoping to extend her offer to include birthday parties, one to ones and community sessions encouraging the older generations to enjoy the benefits of the natural world too.
“Rather than being stuck at home playing on devices, children need to be outside, exploring, enjoying nature and learning about the environment.
“They love it here – they can come and enjoy themselves while working on their empathy, social skills, communication, taking risks and building resilience, but I want to stress forest school is for anyone,” added Amanda, who holds a level three qualification in forest school leadership.
Amanda Klopper is encouraging more people to enjoy the great outdoors and has launched Mater Natura Forest School Photo: Mater Natura Forest School (42296081)
“Being outside is great for our mental health and physical wellbeing – and not just for children, but parents and adults too, who all come together to take a break and make new friends.”
l For more information about prices and sessions with Mater Natura Forest School contact Amanda via her Facebook page @naturegirl1970 or you can email her at maternatura07@gmail.com
