AN INNOVATIVE scheme wanting to get children learning outdoors is coming to Wrexham.

Little Hobbits was set up by primary school teacher Sam Arkinstone and offers a unique stay and play Forest School experience for children of all ages.

Sam explained how the forest school model brings many benefits to young children – allowing them to connect with nature, develop physical skills and become well-rounded youngsters

She told the Leader: “I found myself in the woodland area more than the classroom. The forest has so much to offer children and I think we’ve got such beautiful environments here in North Wales that make that much more enjoyable.”

The mum-of-two completed her Level 3 Forest School qualification several years ago and knows first-hand how children benefit from these experiences.

She added that this kind of teaching will encourage children to pick up valuable life skills such as managing risks, respecting nature as well as building confidence, self-esteem whilst making memories.

She continued: “In this day and age, children are easily given access to screens and kept limited in outdoor exploration. Some may not go beyond their own gardens.

“I’ve noticed the outdoors can have a real calming effect on young children that take part in Forest School. I wanted to see this benefit brought down to the pre-school age band that are too young to take part in this at schools.

“I built all of that into the Little Hobbits programme and hope other children can get outdoors and enjoy the benefit that no indoor environment can provide”

The activities put on by Sam at Little Hobbits range from sensory and creative play experiences to opportunities using small tools to build their own boat to sail down the stream.

For more information, or to enquire about signing up, go to https://www.littlehobbits.co.uk/.