The programme is for 8-12- and 16–25-year-olds and will support children and young people with special educational needs including Autism, ADHD, dyslexia and dyspraxia, with or without a formal diagnosis. Sessions will be held in the woodlands at Queenswood Country Park, and the young people will have the opportunity to try a variety of woodland skills, natural crafts, building dens and cooking over a fire as well as having space to relax and connect with nature.   

The benefits for young people will include making new friends and socialising with others, having fun in nature, learning new skills and trying new things, and building confidence. Early connections with nature support all areas of development as well as health and wellbeing, embedding skills they will use for the rest of their lives.  

Julia Morton, Youth and Wellbeing Officer at Herefordshire Wildlife Trust says: 

“We recognise that people who are neurodivergent - particularly autistic people – may express themselves differently or want to be social in different ways and we want to encourage and support this in a natural setting. This project is a wonderful opportunity for children and young people to connect with nature and feel the positive impact this has on their mental, emotional and physical health while hopefully having fun.” 

WildPlay has been delivering free, nature-based play in communities across Herefordshire for twenty-five years and its mission has always been to connect children to nature through playful experiences. 

Further information and how to join the programme  https://www.herefordshirewt.org/wildplay-thinks-differently