A day in the woods being creative in the sunshine, what could be better! The study barn in Fishpond Woods is a perfect place to use as a base to be inspired by nature. The morning started with a stroll around the woods soaking up the atmosphere and gathering natural materials to be used in the children's creative activities.
Blackberries, stones from the ground and the tie dying process were used to dye tote bags. If you add lemon juice to the blackberries the colour changes into a more delicate tone.
Hazel branches are very pliable and are perfect to construct wreaths and crowns. Dr Brambley and his wife Michelle who own the woods, are developing the study barn into an educational centre and have planted troughs of fresh herbs. Some of the herbs were included in the wreaths as well as lavender, mint and marjoram. Feathers and other flowers which had been gathered earlier were also woven between the hazel branches.
Shape, colour and the printing process were explored by using assorted leaves such as bracken and cherry to create striking leaf prints.
Although we bought extra clay, it can be dug up by the stream in the woods. We left this table very open to provide more freedom and exploration. We followed the children's ideas and introduced new skills as and when appropriate.
You are never too old for mud pies! There is a mud kitchen outside the study barn and the children loved digging up mud, picking herbs, flowers and grasses to concoct potions and unusual recipes! Clay was squeezed through a garlic press to make spaghetti and rolled into meat balls! Delicious!
What a really happy day!
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