Magic of trees

Plane tree

One of my aims this year is to help the children to recognize different tree species. Westonbirt Arboretum is a perfect place to practise. Also a perfect place to enjoy a walk in the woods. Just so revitalizing.

stellata magnolia

I admit that I’ve had to refresh my tree knowledge too. Not that I mind.

skeleton leaves

Eldest was even able to name a tree that I didn’t know. She’d read it in a book. Smile. I must be doing something right.

lesser celandines

cuckooflowerPlenty of wildflowers to recognise or learn about too. This beauty is a cuckoo flower. Such a great name for a spring flower. It was Spring two years ago that we were listening to the cuckoo call down on the Somerset Levels.

cherry blossom

pink rhododendron

new favourite

blue rhododendron

The children ran from one flowering tree or bush to another, asking the names. Declaring that each new one was now their favourite.

feet on feet

Fun to happen across a lovely simple wooden play area. Nestled in among the trees.

No signage, but the natural draw of a good place to play.

big foot

stepping stones

I suspect they would have stayed and played. A lot longer. Time to go home.

chamomile

spotted bee fly

These are from our garden. This time of year is just the time to spot a bee-fly. Like a tiny humming bird with a proboscis as long as its body. It hangs in the air, hovering. Interesting little flies. Children loved learning about the tactics they use to ensure their offspring thrive.

spotted bee fly 2

Breathe. So nice to be outside. Even better to use it as an outside classroom.

Joining in with #CountryKids.

Country Kids from Coombe Mill Family Farm Holidays Cornwall

16 comments

  1. I wish I knew the names of more trees, I’m going to have to learn as the boys keep asking me 🙂 Gorgeous flowers, I can see why the kids were so enthused x #CountryKids

    1. Nature is so inspiring. We spend so much time talking about it. I’m better at recognizing the trees than the wildflower, so I’m loving having something new to learn too.

    1. Ah, thank you Merlinda. So many lovely wildflowers to enjoy. We did have fun, and the best part is that they are still talking about it. 🙂

    1. Totally agree! Wonderful places. Such forethought by the founders. Plant trees with such thought, for us to enjoy years later. Amazing.

  2. Stunning photos and what well educated children you are bringing up. They look like they are really learning to love the environment around them and show interest in understanding it. As you say the best classroom around! Thank you for sharing on Country Kids.

    1. They pleaded with me this week to go to Westonbirt. I could hardly turn them down. 😀 They are so hungry to learn more. Perfect. I can’t imagine it any other way. Westonbirt is such a lovely place. Car park was busy, but it doesn’t take long until you can walk and not bump into anyone.

  3. I agree that teaching children about nature is very important. My boys enjoy telling me the names of trees and plants- to know what is around you is a wonderful skill to have.

    I’d love you to consider linking up to my current BigKid link – I think you have some great tips to share:)

    1. We do love our natural history. Becoming more and more fascinated where the names come from too. I love all the questions that it prompts.

      I’ll pop over and check out your link up. Love learning more and love to share too. 🙂

  4. That cuckoo flower is so beautiful. Great way to spend time outdoors. My two are quite young, but we’ve started going on tree hunts and I like to chat to the 4yo about different trees and plants we spot when we’re out – she really enjoys it, and like you, forces me to refresh my knowledge, too!

    1. Never too young. Certainly gets them out and appreciating nature, through their observations. That can’t be bad.

  5. Such lovely photos. My knowledge of trees is quite basic but I’m getting better with my flower species. I love the big wooden foot, it’s lovely when you come across something surprising on your adventures.

    1. Isn’t it wonderful when you just happen upon these areas? I’m not even sure it was a proper play area. Maybe one in the making, or an abandoned one. No idea, but it captured my children!

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