CHILDREN are being encouraged to enjoy the great outdoors at a new forest school.

Little Woodland Explorers hosts sessions for youngsters and their parents or carers in Castle Gardens in Old Malton.

The sessions are run by a Donna McAnulty-Rickard, a fully qualified and insured Forest School Practitioner, who provides as array of woodland activities that compliment the natural environment.

“We live in an age where many children have less outdoor exposure than most prison inmates, reverse this tide, come and meet new people,” she said. “Join in the fun and promote healthy outdoor living opportunities for you and your family.”

Activities include making a river or lakes, a muddy area to play, mud painting, charcoal drawing, treasure hunts, mini beasts hunts, animal tracking, leaf identification and den building.

Donna, who is also a Montessori trained practitioner, said: “We also provide homemade biscuits and cakes to have with drinks, usually usually a chocolate, from the Kelly Kettle and cooking over the fire.”

Little Woodland Explorers meet on Wednesdays, from 10.30am to noon, at Malton Castle Garden.

For more information, phone 07949 008887 or 01653 696232, or email lwecastlegarden@yahoo.com