Saturday Superdads Forest Walk

We are holding a forest walk at Firestone Copse on Saturday, the 12th of November. Here are some reasons we think you should come along!

Walking in the woods benefits children and adults alike, and there's no better time to discover your local area.

Why go outdoors?

A study by the National Trust highlighted that today's children might be suffering from 'nature deficit disorder because they don't spend enough time outdoors.

Here are some benefits of walking in the woods.

It makes all of you healthier.

Many studies were done to explore the health benefits of walks in the forest. They found that being in nature may reduce blood pressure, help maintain a healthy weight, and even boost immunity.

Being outdoors makes you and them happier.

Many studies have shown that people who live near trees may experience less depression. Another study found that green environments improve mood and self-esteem; these are important for your children's happiness and yours. Spending time near a lake, river, or ocean enhances these positive effects even more.

Trees and woodland boost creativity

We are more creative when exposed to nature; we can use all our senses rather than just sight and sound; we can use our imaginations. Children in nature-based playgrounds engage in more creative play than in traditional asphalt/structure-based playgrounds.

The forest can boost social skills.

When we spend more time in nature, a positive self-image, confidence, and the ability to face new challenges are some of the skills children and adults can develop in nature. In addition to all of this, it can help you all connect with others and develop your social skills.

Trampling through the leaves reduces stress and anxiety.

Exercising or even just sitting in forests reduces blood pressure and decreases levels of cortisol and adrenalin, the body's stress hormones. It also puts the body into a relaxed state by increasing parasympathetic nervous system activity. Even looking at photos or drawings of trees has a positive effect.

Being outdoors increases attentiveness.

By spending time in nature, you will both learn to pay attention to the seasons, how they change and the wildlife in our forests. It also helps you realise why the forest and all its inhabitants are essential to us, which can help bring up eco-conscious adults who protect nature.

In the words of David Attenborough:

"No one will protect what they don't care about, and no one will care about what they have never experienced."

If you still need a reason to come and join us.

A lovely dose of nature is a brilliant way to break the usual routine. Taking growing explorers to the nearest forest can help them enjoy their freedom outdoors without obligations or rules.

Child-led play is essential for little ones; this is when they can decide what they want to do and how they want to learn without anyone leading them.

The great outdoors is the perfect place. You and your children can follow your curiosity and discover the world using your senses.

How often do we stop and be in awe of nature? The curves of a tree, the colours of the leaves or the beauty of a perfect sunset? By sharing our behaviour, we can teach our children mindfulness and the appreciation of nature whilst being together and immersing ourselves in the experience.

Men Only Saturday Superdads are planning an Autumn walk in Firestone Copse on Saturday, the 12th of November. The Copse is an area of outstanding natural beauty, notable for its wide-ranging tree species, from Oak to soaring spires of Grand Firs.

We have 15 child places available, so please book your children in as soon as possible; head over to our events page here