Wellies in the Woods

All children deserve the chance to play, explore and thrive in safe outdoor spaces — no matter where they live. Yet many families face real barriers to outdoor play, with some areas having 900 children per playground.

Groundwork’s Wellies in the Woods brings outdoor play and learning to young children and their families in communities in need of extra provision.

What is Wellies in the Woods?

According to research, only 27% of children regularly play outside near their homes.

Wellies in the Woods aims to inspire families to connect with nature on their doorsteps – engaging with outdoor play by demonstrating low-to no-cost activities which families can do at home. These activities take place in green spaces, with a core focus on stories and books to support children’s development, whilst significantly improving health and wellbeing.

Working in conjunction with child and family centres and other early years settings, the programme supports families to enjoy spending time together engaging in play activities and helps parents and guardians to embrace outdoor play – using a wide range of different activities and proving lots of different ideas that can be replicated in any green space.

By bringing beloved storybooks to life in the great outdoors, Wellies in the Woods creates a safe space where families can connect, learn, and grow together in learning sessions designed to inspire, educate, and empower.