DO you remember your early experiences of nature? Those moments when you first fell in-love with wildlife?

Perhaps you were knee deep in a stream trying to catch sticklebacks; scratched and victorious as you clambered up a tree; or quietly enchanted by a shiny green flower-beetle.

Many of us can testify how our childhood experiences of nature led to a lifelong love and commitment towards the natural world.

Evidence also shows that connection to nature in childhood is correlated with benefits for both physical and mental wellbeing, as well as some more surprising links like educational attainment (from RSPB report The impact of children’s connection to nature).

Giving children the opportunity to explore, enjoy, understand and empathise with nature is good for both them and nature!

Wildlife Watch groups, run by the Wildlife Trust, are for children to make friends with other nature-loving young people and have lots of fun taking part in practical activities - from pond dipping to wildlife safaris. They are also a great opportunity for families to enjoy some quality time and pick up some activities ideas to use when out on their next adventure together.

Across the UK hundreds of adult volunteers are dedicated to running Wildlife Watch groups. There are currently five in Somerset and you can find out more here: https://www.somersetwildlife.org/get-involved/next-generation/watch-clubs. 

If there is no Wildlife Watch group in your area then why not think about setting one up? All groups are led by volunteer leaders and helpers and supported by Somerset Wildlife Trust, it’s a fun and flexible volunteer role in which you can have a real impact for both children and wildlife.

We’re looking for volunteers across Somerset so that more families can enjoy the benefits of joining a group - get in touch to find out more!

Three ideas for adventures to enjoy with your family this weekend:

  • Help contribute to science by taking part in the Somerset Frog and Toad spawn count running until March 31
  • Help the birds get through the colder months by making your own bird feeder
  • Visit a wetland nature reserve to spot winter wildfowl - the highest numbers of birds are present during the winter months and male ducks are in their brightest plumage of the year

Find out more on the website by visiting somersetwildlife.org.