We had a walk in Stone Edge Wood this morning. We used to play in woods when we were children, making dens, bird watching, climbing trees, paddling in the streams, and swinging on a makeshift rope swing, knowing that it could break any minute!
I hardly see any children playing in woods nowadays. It all seems to be playing on computers these days.
Our local Woodland Trust is working with schools offering an interactive project called 'Tree Tools for Schools'. They get free tree packs, including how to identify trees, make nature crafts and arts, how to make a den, and how to plant and care for trees. This has all been funded by the Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (DEFRA).
It's all aimed at helping teachers motivate children to enjoy the woods and nature. Source
When I was at school, we went on nature trails. I loved them as it was much better than boring classroom lessons. I can remember thinking the teacher knew a lot about nature. Looking back, they probably told us about the odd tree and flower.
We spotted the odd foxglove towering above the fern, with its purple-pink flowers. Growing up, we were always taught not to touch them as they are poisonous but the bees love the nectar.
We followed the footpath to do a nice circular walk, not seeing another soul.
