rediscovering outdoor play

We want to ache not from sitting but from moving;
to know the shape of hills by walking them;
the rhythm of each step walking life into place.
We want to see again - shapes of leaves and shades of green,
softness of grass and sting of nettles.
We want to hear again - a world free of traffic and sirens,
to hear the movement of wind, the snap of branches, and the grasses rustle.
We want to climb stiles and negotiate cows and cross boundaries.

Extract from 'A Pilgrim's Prayer - From St Martin's to Canterbury'

Revd Richard Carter

"I wish it was like for 5 days, like living here." Sam. "Then you could get to know people really well." Jake, both aged 10, April Explorer Day.

One boy said to his friend whilst sitting by the fire,"This is like a dream", which I took to understand, from the way he said it that it was like a dream coming true. His friend responded "Shall I pinch you to check?" Explorer Party, July 08.

"You forget that this is all there" Parent reacting to going down into the valley on an Explorer party, July 08


 
 
 

We're often out Exploring! Click to see our blog and latest pictures

'Swainswick Explorers is a rural project which facilitates truly adventurous environmental play such as tree-climbing, den-building, splashing in streams and campfire cookery. They provide magical, formative experiences for children outdoors - lots of 'first experiences' with e.g. fire, risk, nature, and adventure...' Dr. Martin Maudsley of University of Gloscestershire & Playwork Partnership. Podcast of Martin talking about importance of outdoor play:

Based in Upper Swainswick, 2 miles north of Bath, and the surrounding countryside. 01225 858251, rachel@playingoutdoors.org. Upper Swainswick House, Tadwick Lane, BA1 8BU

 
 
 

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