National Week of Play 2023

National Week of Play

This year we celebrate National Week of Play this June.

CHILDREN PHOTOSHOOT ON LOCATION BY NATASHA WIENING PHOTOGRAPHY

Why is it important for Children to play outdoors?

In the past 30 years, the preference for indoor spaces has become more prominent as screens have taken up more of our children’s time and attention.

As a result, parental fear, poor urban planning and overly structured play and supervision have all worked together to prevent kids from playing outdoors. This disconnect from nature has serious implications for the mental, physical, emotional, and spiritual wellbeing of our kids and of the natural world.

Why are children better off spending time in nature?

Nature play is all about allowing children to explore the natural environment, engage in free play, and to connect with nature. It’s also about helping children to develop a sense of curiosity and creativity.

Research has shown that nature play has a positive impact on children’s physical and mental health, as well as on their cognitive development.

Studies have found that children who spend more time outdoors tend to be more physically active and have better physical health, as well as lower levels of stress and anxiety. They also tend to have better concentration and problem-solving skills.

Nature play can also help to foster a sense of connection and respect for the environment. By exploring the natural world, children can gain an appreciation for the beauty that exists around us and learn to take care of the environment.

What is Nature Play week?

During Nature Play Week, parents and caregivers can find lots of fun and creative activities that inspire children to explore and connect with nature.

From building a den in the woods to playing in the mud, there are so many activities that can help children to have fun and to learn about the environment.

Nature play can be an important part of a child’s development and it can be a great way for them to get active and to explore the world around them. To join in Nature Play Week and get your kids outdoors, check out some events here.

When is National week of play in the UK?

This year National Week of Play is June 2023

If there aren’t any events near you or you can’t make it to them, here is a list of 10 nature play ideas you can do with your baby or toddler any time of year (remember the saying, ‘There’s no such thing as bad weather, only unsuitable clothing’!):

1.     Take a nature walk and observe animals and plants.

2.     Collect rocks and leaves to explore shapes and textures.

3.     Use natural objects such as sticks, leaves, and stones to create art and music.

4.     Book a Family photography shoot outdoors.

5.     Go on a scavenger hunt for natural items.

6.     Make mud pies with dirt, water and rocks.

7.     Build a miniature fort or ‘campfire’ using sticks and rocks.

8.     Make a bird feeder out of an old milk carton.

9.     Fly a kite.

10. Go on a bug hunt.

Best places to book a Family Photoshoot this June.

Being a location photographer, I am always excited when families book photoshoots outdoors. This is a time to capture those fun children portraits and photographs of families bonding. There are so many wonderful locations in London to do family photoshoots. My preference when photographing families is venues which offer dated classic architecture and natural untouched gardens over a maintained garden. I find them far more interesting and create better pictures.

Best places for a Family Photoshoot on Location.

In Hyde Park you have the river, beautiful bridges as backdrops or lines of blossoms trees.

In Regents Park you have the river and Japanese gardens which create a wonderful backdrop.

Richmond Park has wonderful woods to explore with logs and high grass to create those wonderful low depth of field shots. You will also find the Isabella Plantation in Richmond which has gorgeous gardens of flowers and shrubs.

Chiswick House on Staveley Road is another little gem which has a beautiful pond and grounds to explore.

Best places in Buckinghamshire to book a Family Photoshoot.

In May Hodgemoor Woods offers some of the best bluebells which are perfect for family and children photoshoots.

Clivedon House has the most gorgeous walks, gardens and river with picturesque views. It also offer woods to explore so this is a perfect location of a family photoshoot within Buckinghamshire.

Stoke Poges Memorial Gardens is a wonderful place for children photoshoots. I like to do individual children portraits there as there are many hidden gems with cherry blossoms, to beautiful gardens to interesting architecture.

Windsor Great Park is one of my favourite venues as there are so many beautiful places to photograph. There are a few different entrances points, all equally as beautiful like The Savill Garden, Virginia Water South, Rangers Gate, Cranbourne Gate and Wick Road. Adventure Play is a unique, hand-crafted adventure playground at Windsor Great Park. Hidden within the woodland next to The Savill Garden, you’ll discover a fascinating world of walkways, slides, sculptures and treehouses. This playground could be a treat for any child after their family photoshoot.

Hughenden National Trust in High Wycombe is another perfect place for a family photoshoot with private gardens and woods to explore.

If you live close to me in Buckinghamshire and are willing to venture out a little, you can try The Mayfield Lavender Farm in Surrey. Here you will find the prettiest lavender fields and right in the middle of the fields, a red telephone box for those fun family portraits; this is a true gem.

If you would like have a chat about some options for your family photoshoot, please get in touch with Natasha.