There’s something truly special about starting the day surrounded by trees, the fresh scent of earth in the air, and the excited chatter of little explorers ready for a morning of woodland play. At Acorn Play, we believe in the magic of child-led learning in nature—where every stick, puddle, and fallen leaf is an opportunity for adventure! But what exactly happens at one of our forest school-inspired sessions? Here’s a peek into a typical morning at Acorn Play…

🌳 A Warm Welcome in the Woods 🌳

Families arrive at our beautiful Lineover Wood setting, where children are instantly drawn to the space, a gorgeous Cedar Tree clearing. Some children run straight to the log circle, others eagerly explore the undergrowth, and a few take their time, holding hands with a grown-up and soaking in the sights and sounds. We always begin with a warm welcome, checking in with how everyone is feeling and, of course, talking about the weather! ☀️

For our younger ones, this is where they begin to understand the rhythm of the seasons—whether it’s feeling the frost underfoot, spotting the first spring buds, or listening to the pitter-patter of rain on the leaves. It’s a chance to pause and appreciate nature’s constant changes.

🎧 Songs, Stories & Gathering Together 🎧

Once we’re settled, we gather in our log circle for a gentle introduction to the session. We sing simple songs that connect us to nature, bringing a sense of familiarity and rhythm to the morning. Then, we dive into a seasonal story—perhaps a classic tale about woodland animals, a magical nature-inspired adventure, or a calming sensory story for the littlest ones.

Our stories often lead into our activities for the day. A tale about a little mouse building a home might inspire den-building, while a story about a squirrel hiding acorns could lead to a scavenger hunt.

🔧 Woodland Play & Discovery 🔧

This is where the real magic happens! Our sessions are child-led, so little ones are free to explore and engage with the activities that spark their curiosity. Each session includes a variety of engaging, forest school-inspired activities, such as:

🌱 Nature crafts – We use leaves, mud, clay, and foraged materials to create beautiful art inspired by the woods.

🛠️ Tool use – For our older children, we introduce safe and supervised tool use, where they can saw, hammer, and drill to create their own woodland masterpieces.

🌟 Den building – Using sticks, branches, and teamwork, children create dens and shelters, learning about problem-solving and resilience along the way.

🛼 Physical play – Balancing on logs, climbing tree stumps, jumping over puddles—our natural playground invites movement and risk-taking in a safe environment.

🎮 Imaginative play – One day, our woods might be home to woodland fairies; the next, it’s a pirate ship sailing the seven seas!

Throughout it all, our experienced forest school leader and infant teacher is on hand to guide, encourage, and support children’s learning through play.

🌿 Snack & Campfire Time 🌿

All that play works up an appetite! Midway through the session, we come together around the campfire for a well-earned snack. Depending on the day, we might toast crumpets, roast apples with cinnamon, or warm up with a cup of hot chocolate.

This time isn’t just about eating—it’s about sharing stories, fostering friendships, and simply being in nature. It’s a time to slow down, connect, and appreciate the peacefulness of the woodland setting.

🤠 Closing Circle & Goodbye Song 🤠

As the session draws to a close, we gather once more for our goodbye song—a simple, familiar tune that helps little ones transition out of the woodland world and back into their day. We reflect on what we enjoyed, the discoveries we made, and what we might look forward to next time.

Children leave with muddy hands, rosy cheeks, and full hearts, carrying little pockets of nature home with them—whether it’s a treasured leaf, a crafted clay creature, or simply the memory of an adventure-filled morning.

🌼 Ready to Join Us? 🌼

Acorn Play sessions run on Fridays in Lineover Wood for babies, toddlers, pre-schoolers, and home-educated children.

Want to experience the magic of woodland play? Book your spot now! Visit www.acornplay.co.uk or send us a message to find out more.

We can’t wait to welcome you to the woods! 🌳💚