Tracie Dowling

childminding, forest school, Garden Classroom, Outdoor Curriculum, outdoor play, Uncategorized, wildlife

Hands-On Learning in Nature: The Garden Classroom Experience

Posted on 27th Feb 2026 by Tracie Dowling

The most exciting day has finally arrived: the garden classroom is now completed! It is totally unique, crafted from 100 percent recycled resources, showcasing a commitment to sustainability and creativity. This space is designed not only to inspire imaginations but also to serve as an effective learning environment. Within the classroom, various learning objectives for children in the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) have been carefully integrated, focusing on enabling environments that foster exploration, play, and discovery. From hands-on gardening activities to interactive nature-themed lessons, this classroom promises to enhance the educational experience for young learners, allowing them to connect with nature while developing essential skills in a playful and nurturing setting.

Children with sensory processing difficulties are truly enjoying their new space, where vibrant colors, engaging textures, and soothing sounds combine to create an environment that caters to their unique needs. This thoughtfully designed area not only provides a safe haven for exploration but also encourages them to express their creativity freely, fostering a sense of comfort and belonging as they interact with various sensory tools and activities.

Elliott and Pennie engaged in imaginative play

The Kitchen Role Play area is a vibrant and imaginative space that allows children to explore the various aspects of a kitchen area. In this engaging environment, young learners can don playful chef hats, wield safe utensils, and utilize miniature kitchen appliances to create their own culinary masterpieces. This area is designed not just for play but also to foster creativity, collaboration, and social skills as children work together to pretend they are hosting dinner parties or serving in a bustling café. Rich with interactive elements, the Kitchen Role Play area encourages children to use their imaginations while also familiarizing themselves with the concepts of food preparation, healthy eating, and even basic mathematics through measuring and counting ingredients. It serves as an essential component of early childhood development, blending fun with education in a way that sparks curiosity and joy in cooking.

Role play in early childhood education promotes creativity, social skills, and collaboration among peers. It aligns with the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) objectives by enhancing language and communication through negotiation and idea-sharing. Additionally, it builds emotional intelligence as children empathize with others and reinforces cognitive skills by presenting problem-solving opportunities. Ultimately, role play is a valuable and enjoyable tool for intertwining learning objectives.

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Engaging Nature: A Unique Classroom Experience

Posted on 27th Feb 2026 by Tracie Dowling

The builders have gone home for the weekend, so we have been able to go down and have a look at the garden classroom, which is still in the process of being finished. It’s quite exciting to see the space taking shape, with fresh wood framing, vibrant paint colors selected for the walls, and large windows that will allow plenty of natural light to flood in. As we stroll around, we can almost envision the children engaging with nature in this unique environment, fostering their creativity and curiosity while learning about the flora and fauna right at their doorstep. The potential for outdoor lessons and hands-on activities is endless, making this classroom not just a place of learning, but also a sanctuary where children can connect with the world around them.

We looked at the wood carefully, appreciating its unique textures and colors, and used real tools to practice our skills while taking care to prioritize safety first. We examined the different types of wood, learning about their various properties and how they contribute to different projects. Each tool had its purpose, and we discussed how STEM concepts intertwined with our hands-on experience in this learning adventure, all while engaging the children in the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) curriculum. Through this process, we fostered creativity and problem-solving abilities, encouraging an appreciation for craftsmanship and the natural materials around us.

The walls have been insulated and covered in recycled wood, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere, while also highlighting sustainable resources. The mosaic textures of the walls add a unique aesthetic appeal, each piece telling its own story of reclaimed craftsmanship. They even made a stunning table out of reclaimed decking, showcasing the beauty of upcycled materials, inviting friends and family to gather around for memorable meals and conversations. This commitment to environmental responsibility not only enhances the living space but also serves as a testament to creative design that respects our planet.

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Day 4: The Big Build Gallery

Posted on 27th Feb 2026 by Tracie Dowling

Today everyone was working very hard in the lovely sun, the build is coming on fast and everyone is so busy, with people bustling about, each focused on their tasks. We are enjoying playing on the balcony, laughing and sharing stories while watching everyone working diligently and the classroom taking shape, transforming before our eyes into a vibrant space filled with creativity and potential. The sounds of tools and cheerful conversations blend harmoniously, creating a lively atmosphere that enhances our cheerful spirits as we eagerly anticipate the completion of this exciting project.

Jack was cheeky and went down into the garden to have a chat with everyone while they had their lunch, feeling adventurous and eager to share the stories he had gathered during the week. As he approached the group, he noticed how warm the sun was in the garden iWith a playful grin, he interrupted their conversations, bringing laughter and light-hearted banter, which made the lunch break feel even more enjoyable. Jack’s enthusiasm was infectious, and soon everyone was sharing their own anecdotes, turning an ordinary meal into a delightful gathering filled with camaraderie and joy.

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Day 3: The Big Build The First Wall Is UP!!

Posted on 27th Feb 2026 by Tracie Dowling

What an exciting day we had! The sun was shining brightly in the clear blue sky, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere that energized everyone on site. The crew worked tirelessly, their dedication evident as they maneuvered big machines with precision, eagerly employing saws to cut through sturdy timber. They carefully selected screws and bolts, ensuring that every piece of wood was securely fitted together for maximum durability. Laughter and camaraderie filled the air as they collaborated seamlessly, creating not just a structure but also a sense of achievement that brought smiles to their faces. The sound of construction echoed all around, a symphony of productivity and purpose that marked a truly memorable day.

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Day 2: The Big Build – The Foundations

Posted on 27th Feb 2026 by Tracie Dowling

We have been watching the builders putting down the foundations of the building today, marveling at their precision and teamwork as they carefully crafted the base for what promises to be an extraordinary space. Eon, the project manager, engaged us in thoughtful conversation, asking us all about what we wanted and how we envisioned using the room in the future. With enthusiasm, we shared our ideas, outlining our dreams for the space—perhaps a cozy nook for gatherings or a serene area for reflection. We expressed to him that while we were open to his expertise and suggestions, the most important aspect was that it had to be magical! We believe that this space should inspire creativity and evoke a sense of wonder, and we are excited to see how Eon translates our visions into a reality that captivates the imagination.

Jack went out and helped Eon and Mim measure the wood, carefully noting down the dimensions as they discussed the best ways to utilize each piece for their project. He asked lots of questions, eager to learn more about construction techniques and the importance of accurate measurements. Meanwhile, Ben wanted to have a look too, so Gemma held him firmly to keep him safe as they navigated the bustling building site. They both peered at the various tools scattered around, intrigued by the hum of activity and the sounds of hammers and drills, and they had a good look around, marveling at the transformation of the area and the teamwork it took to create something new from the ground up.

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Starting Day of Our Garden Classroom

Posted on 27th Feb 2026 by Tracie Dowling

Today marks an exciting milestone as our project progresses. We eagerly awaited the crew to start building the new classroom and took the time to reflect on our hard work over the past few months. We designed and constructed vegetable raised beds and carefully relocated our various wildlife habitats. We discussed the effort we’ve put in, knowing it will be worthwhile when the new building is complete.

Jack and Elliott talked about all the different bugs we found while moving everything, sharing their discoveries with excitement and curiosity. Lottie chimed in, mentioning that there had been too many big spiders lurking in the corners, which made her a bit uneasy, but she gazed at the butterflies flitting gracefully around the flowers with pure delight, admiring their vibrant colors and delicate patterns. The trio spent hours discussing their favorite insects, and while some found creepy crawlies repulsive, they all agreed that nature’s beauty was unique and captivating, especially when it came to the fluttering wings of those enchanting butterflies.

This is the area where the classroom will be built, its dimensions measuring 17 feet by 8 feet. The design emphasizes sustainability, as it will be constructed entirely out of wood, carefully selected for its quality and durability. Furthermore, everything in the classroom, from the walls to the fixtures, will be made using recycled materials, ensuring minimal environmental impact. This includes the doors and windows, which will not only add character to the space but also promote eco-friendliness. The project aims to create an inspiring learning environment that highlights the importance of recycling and sustainability for future generations.

The van packed with wooden materials, ready for the construction of a sustainable classroom.

Holly and Jack stood quietly, gazing at the garden as it is for the last time, remembering countless hours spent planting flowers, nurturing the soil, and watching their hard work bloom into vibrant colors.

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Exploring the Gruffalo Trail: A Day of Nature and Learning

Posted on 27th Feb 2026 by Tracie Dowling

Today we took the children to visit the Delamere Forest Gruffalo Trail the main aim of the trip was to develop key skills in observation, map reading, and navigation, while engaging in physical activity through woodland exploration. The trail encourages imaginative play, sensory experiences, and an appreciation for nature, allowing the children to connect with the story and characters.

Key learning opportunities embedded in the trip included:

Technology & Art: The Gruffalo Spotters AR app brings characters to life using technology, while the wooden sculptures offer appreciation for art in nature. the trip was to develop key skills in observation, map reading, and navigation, while engaging in physical activity through woodland exploration. The trail encourages imaginative play, sensory experiences, and an appreciation for nature, allowing the children to connect with the story and characters.

Navigation & Logic: Children learn to read simple maps and follow clues to locate sculptures, enhancing decision-making skills.

Physical Development: The uneven, natural terrain helps improve coordination, balance, and core strength.

Nature & Ecology: Children can learn about forest habitats, wildlife, and natural cycles of growth and decay.

Literacy & Imagination: The experience brings Julia Donaldson’s story to life, fostering imagination and a love for reading.

We found the Gruffalo! Jack shouted ‘ O no, O help it’s the Gruffalo!

We came across the mouse sitting on the log we carried on quoting the story Ben said “nut” and Jack told us ‘the Gruffalo had run away, so the mouse enjoyed a nut in peace’

Chloe told us all about the snake living in the log pile house, slithering and squirming around waiting to jump out and gobble up the tiny mouse.

Ben enjoyed walking along the long log having support from Gemma to balance and keep steady.

During the trip we learnt all about the Woodland Ecology & Nature all around us.

Animal Habitats: By searching for the sculptures, the children explored the realistic settings where creatures like foxes, owls, and snakes live.

Plant Life: Various signs along the trail encouraged the children to identify different leaves, mushrooms and learn about how plants and animals care for one another.

Observation: Interactive panels along the way taught us how to look for animal tracks and listen for specific forest sounds.

Ben enjoyed feeling the texture of the Characters

We wanted to share this lovely photograph we too of us all observing the mushroom.

We had an amazing day out, beyond the “official” learning objectives, the trip to Delamere Forest was a brilliant way to sneak in some character building and quality bonding that they won’t even realise was educational.

If you’re heading out there, make the most of the amazing “interactive classroom”:

Garden Classroom, Uncategorized

The Garden Classroom: The Next Journey

Posted on 24th Sep 202524th Sep 2025 by Tracie Dowling

Hope you enjoyed our little film keep visiting our site to see how we transform our amazing Garden classroom.

Thank you for watching

Our before pictures

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Lovely Week Back After Summer Holidays

Posted on 14th Sep 2025 by Tracie Dowling

We have had a lovely week settling back in and spending time in our new Garden Classroom

We decorated the garden with our lively natural art work

Ben and Lottie painted their bird houses, they are looking forward to see if the birds will use them.

We went to our Childminder drop in session and celebrated Paula’s 60th birthday with a lovely cake!

It was so fun exploring outdoors we even had our lunch outside.

We are all Looking forward to seeing what fun we have next week!

Outdoor Curriculum

Soil and Mud Play

Posted on 27th Jul 202523rd Oct 2025 by Tracie Dowling

Soil and Mud

This is something that is available to children in large quantities and it’s great to see how the changing elements of the season change the children’s relationship with it.

Checklist of Opportunities