I have always loved the idea of forest school, so when Helly Hansen gave us the opportunity to attend one whilst down in Cornwall we were all excited.
Badger Forest School is set in Cardinham Woods near St Austell (and close by to our accommodation at
Natural Retreats) and is run by qualified primary school teacher Claire. Natural retreats was the perfect place to stay to explore the woods as there was a washing machine in our villa and two gorgeous balconies to dry our gear - it definitely needed a wash after the day we had!
The boys fell asleep on the way there and were reluctant to be woken up and changed into their saloppettes and welly boots, but as soon as their feet squelched down into the mud, their smiles came out and Claire did everything she could to make sure they were enjoying themselves.
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| The boys and Bob the Badger |
We waded in the river, throwing in stones, splashing our feet and exploring the stunning environment. Our wellies keeping our feet dry, and their trousers making sure the water kicked up didn't make them wet. We squelched through puddles seeing who could jump the highest (with only a few Peppa Pig mentions) and covered our boots in wed mud only to wash them off again in the river.
We sat around the camp fire heating hot chocolate and toasting marshmallows on long sticks. Claire had talked to the boys all about safety near the fire and they were cautious and careful as they roasted their treats.
We discovered a den that had been built that morning and played inside. The boys loved the shelter, especially as the rain decided to start falling - perfect timing really as we were perfectly dressed for it. Hoods went up and we stayed dry. The rain didn't put anyone off having fun and we went back to the river. Forest school is very child led and my children were fascinated by the stream, so Claire led us back there to explore further.
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| With Claire, the lady behind Badger Forest School |
The boys were in their element, they thrived on the freedom, the space and being able to explore with no limits. They could sit in the mud, crawl on the floor and jump in the biggest puddles knowing that when we got back to the car they could take off their overalls and be dry and comfortable again. Our
Helly Hansen gear was bright enough that we could always spot the boys in the greenery and them us.
Archie wore salopettes and jacket in age 3, Dylan wore jacket and salopettes in age 6 and Helly Hansen wellies, I had a Helly Hansen jacket, leggings and wellies and the bloke was wearing their waterproof boots and jacket. Every piece was well fitted, comfortable and waterproof and it seemed perfectly designed for childhood adventures like forest school.
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| Finn snuggled up in the sling and protected by Daddy's jacket |
If you love rain as much as us then pop over to instagram where Helly Hansen have a fantastic competition. Share a photo of how much you love rain to enter. This may not be rain, but I just love the movement, how much Dylan is loving being outdoors, getting wet and dirty and just being free.
