Eleanor Astbury. Nature Nest Childcare

Nomination highlights

"The nature nest is a childminder setting that offers a huge range of outdoor learning opportunities and risky play for the Early Years. A really creative and homely environment that has developed my little boy's learning and social skills.

They work extensively to provide Forest School and coastal school sessions and focus on a child-led approach, allowing young children to take part in risky play in a safe and nurturing environment. We are so very lucky that our little boy gets to experience this authentic setting filled with natural resources, and to spend the vast majority of his day outside in nature."

Tell us a bit about what you do

We’re a husband and wife childminding team passionate about delivering a nature-based curriculum both in and outdoors.

What do you love about your work?

I love that we have the flexibility with our days to fully immerse ourselves in the children’s interests and learning, whether that be a day at the beach or an afternoon in our Forest School area.

What are the benefits – why is muddy, outdoor, nature play so important?

It is so important for children to really experience nature in order to develop a greater respect for the world around us. The outdoors provides numerous opportunities for risky, adventurous and imaginative play and is great for everyone’s mental and emotional well-being too.

Top tip for muddy/messy/nature play

Wear the right gear! Being outdoors can be miserable if you aren’t well prepared with changes of clothes, waterproof layers and good sustenance.

Resource recommendation

Follow Millie’s Garden on Instagram. Millie’s setting is so inspiring and a great reminder of the importance of a slow, child-led pedagogy.

Pay it Forward – who would you nominate as your Mud Champion?

Sarah Nezaj, from Sarah’s Jungle Tots!

How will you spend your Muddy Faces voucher?

We’d like to stock up on some more Forest School gear before the colder weather comes around.

See also