Earthwatch launches new indoor/outdoor learning service for families in lockdown

Date published: 03 April 2020


Environmental charity Earthwatch has launched a new service for parents to help children feel that they are doing something positive for nature and connected to the outdoors, to help reduce anxiety among families during the lockdown period. 

A change in routine and lack of access can be difficult for children and many parents are at the same time climbing the walls wondering how to occupy them. 

The new service from Earthwatch offers a sense of connection with nature and purpose, designed specifically for primary aged children.  

Developed by Earthwatch environmental scientists and outdoor learning specialists, the Wild Days service will provide accessible activities every day for the next six weeks, with subscribers receiving a ‘daily edition’ which will include science and outdoor learning inspired videos, activities, and games.  

The programme will cover the themes of wildlife, food, water, soil, climate and shelter and will feature Earthwatch ambassadors including naturalist and TV presenter, Nick Baker, and Michaela Strachan, presenter of the BBC’s Springwatch, Autumnwatch and Winterwatch programmes.   

Other Wild Days contributors include Mya-Rose Craig, the world’s top teen birder aka Twitter’s @BirdgirlUK who has 14.6K online followers, and Bella Lack, 17-year-old conservationist and blogger with 150K followers. 

Mya-Rose said: “As humans, we are part of the natural world, which is why it is essential that we keep that connection with nature for our health, well-being and healing.

"The new service from Earthwatch, Wild Days, will allow families to engage with nature, no matter what their background or where they live, and is also a great distraction from worry and boredom.”  

During Week One, children will discover the UK’s wildlife communities with videos on the common flora and fauna found in our gardens, balconies and window boxes; accompanied by interesting and informative tasks, such as conducting a wildlife survey, and enjoying craft activities and games including wildlife bingo.    

By subscribing to the service, £3 per daily edition or £8 per week, users will gain exclusive access to high-quality content created by the charity’s environmental scientists, outdoor learning experts and celebrity ambassadors.   

Funds raised through the subscription service will support Earthwatch Europe’s research into today’s environmental challenges and find solutions to these issues.   

“We live in wild times,” added Nick Baker.

“Unpredictability is about the only aspect we can count on, but that doesn’t mean we can’t still enjoy and appreciate the natural environment around us.  

“Wild Days will help children interact with nature and learn about the natural world. 

"Even the edges of windowsills hold tiny little eco-systems, so there is nature to be found everywhere. 

"Our youngsters want to be doing positive things for the planet and this will help them on that path.”  

Parents can subscribe to the service via: www.wild-days.org


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