0 to 5 years of age are seen as a critical period for children for developing the foundations for thinking, behaving and emotional wellbeing. During these years, “children develop linguistic, cognitive, social, emotional and regulatory skills that predict their later functions in many domains” Travick – Smith 2004, Woolfod and Perry 2012.

Children have an inherent connection and attraction to the outdoor world. Early years is a hugely significant time of development for children and its essential Early Year practitioners nurture this by enhancing children’s sense of freedom, fun and opportunity.
 

Participants

The collaborative partnership will include
•    Children who use the service and parents/carers or guardians.
•    The staff of Sligo Springboard Family Support Service.
•    A children’s storyteller and writer.
•    A visual artist.
•    A woodland schoolteacher/ eco artist.

The project will run between January – March 2025 and it will divided into 5 stages.
•    Engagement and Participation.
Based on the “Lundy Model of Participation”, consultations with children and their parents/ carers/guardians will be conducted in spaces, where all feel comfortable in themselves. All opinions, experience will be valued and encouraged. Activities will be age appropriate so even our youngest participants ideas and views are heard.
•    Story-telling.
 

Please note that the details of events listed above are provided by the relevant Local Authorities.