Nature Based Learning

As well as working with young people at home and in school, Fun Development are able to provide nature-based learning sessions in our outdoor classroom space, on a farm. From this base, young people can safely and confidently explore the surroundings and interact with the animals. Sessions can be adapted to incorporate curriculum style learning but are predominantly used to support social, emotional and communication skills.

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For children with sensory processing difficulties, the outdoor environment enables them to easily move around and change their environment to suit their presenting needs.

 

Next to the classroom we have a wooded area which can be used for climbing, den building, rope work and exploring. On the other side is an open field to run and burn off energy, particularly with our friendly dog Jess who accompanies us during sessions if a young person would like her with us. Working with the dog brings a positive and rewarding sense of responsibility and command for children. It can also take the pressure off for young people who may find communication difficult as Jess is a natural friend who doesn’t require a high level of conversation. 

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Low demand activities, presented through controlled choice, enables our young people to build up new skills and experiences and feel success and achievement as their confidence grows. It is a free flow environment and we encourage movement throughout the space and will easily move activities to a space which suits the child.  We find that supporting with the care of the animals, using tools and experiencing safe fire activities can gently take children out of their comfort zone and build empathy, trust and communication skills.