Over 800 children receive nature inspired homeschool resource packs from Sheffield and Rotherham Wildlife Trust

The trust said it was ‘overwhelmed’ by the number of parents who signed up to receive the packs, all of which were designed to show support and gratitude to hardworking parents and to help children and young people of all ages to play wild, learn wild, get outside and connect with nature while at home.

The packs were then sent out to all who signed up – some of whom had multiple children – and included a range of age-appropriate materials such as Wildlife Watch magazines, boggart making kits, information booklets, species spotting sheets, nature based craft ideas and colouring sheets.

Reaching both young and older children, it is hoped the resources provided will give them all a chance to learn about their local environment and the living things they share it with.

Amy Simcox, Head of Engagement at Sheffield and Rotherham Wildlife Trust, said: “Parents and caregivers are doing a fantastic job of home-schooling – it’s not easy, and we want to help you as much as possible by making our resources accessible to you all at home.

"Whether it inspires you to build a hedgehog shelter, start your own garden bird-watch or discover something new about wildlife with your children, we really hope you find something that sparks their interest and creativity and helps them connect with nature.”

A research report published by The Wildlife Trust found that children’s wellbeing increases after they have spent time connecting with nature – something that in lockdown and during home-schooling is more important than ever.

The trust said it recognises this and wants children and young people across Sheffield and Rotherham to reap the lifelong benefits of a wild childhood and to learn to look after their natural world.

"In a world of instant downloads and digital technology, the beauty and diversity of nature can be overlooked. The lockdown provides a fantastic opportunity for children to slow down and reap the benefits of spending time in nature,” the trust said.

It thanked players of the People’s Postcode Lottery and funding from the National Lottery Heritage Fund for helping ensure the packs could reach so many children.

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