The Wild About Learning pilot programme was delivered to carers and children in Northern Ireland in February 2026, with the aim of strengthening relationships through shared, nature-based experiences.
The programme offered enjoyable and engaging outdoor sessions designed to encourage connection through play, exploration, and calm, restorative time in natural environments.
It aimed to strengthen connections between carers and children through meaningful shared play experiences. Participants were supported to engage in co-regulation activities, with the expectation that this would contribute to reduced stress and anxiety as they progressed through the sessions.
Wild About Learning also sought to build confidence, communication and trust within caring relationships, fostering a stronger sense of belonging and inclusion for all involved. In addition, carers were supported to feel more confident and equipped to use play and nature-based approaches at home, helping to sustain attachment and connection beyond the duration of the programme.
Grounded in a nurture-in-nature approach, the programme created opportunities for child-led, imaginative play while promoting emotional regulation and overall wellbeing. Time spent outdoors supported stress reduction for both carers and children and encouraged positive shared experiences that helped to build and reinforce trusting relationships.
As part of the pilot, participants took part in a range of structured and informal activities, including forest games, nature-based crafts, sensory exploration, curiosity walks and gentle mindfulness exercises in natural surroundings. These activities were designed to be inclusive, accessible and trauma-informed, enabling all participants to engage at a pace suited to their needs.
