Newhailes Nippers get back to Nature

Under-fives in East Lothian are being invited to go wild with the National Trust for Scotland at its historic Newhailes estate, from March this year.

The conservation charity is launching its Nature Nippers group which is designed to give preschool children the chance to explore nature and the outdoors. Newhailes already runs a similar programme of activities for older 8-12 year old children, known as Nature Detectives.

Under the careful guidance of Lothian Area Ranger, Hannah Levene, children under five and their carers can explore the rich wildlife to be found at Newhailes, play nature-themed games and get creative with craft projects.

The group will meet on the first Wednesday of every month, and its activities will change as the seasons do. The first session (Wednesday 3 March, 10.00 until 11.00) focuses on spring and the way the natural world changes around this time of year.

In April, the Nippers will celebrate Easter by finding out about eggs and nests, while at the height of summer in July they’ll search the grounds for butterflies and bugs.

Hannah said,  “Getting out into nature is a great experience for young children. They learn so much about the world around them and get really excited about their latest discoveries – whether those are bugs, birds or bluebells. As a conservation charity, we hope that by nurturing children’s fascination with nature, we’ll establish an enthusiasm for the environment around them that will last a lifetime.”

As at least some of the group’s activities always take place outside, wellies and warm, waterproof clothes are a must and all children must to be accompanied by an adult.

Sessions run from 10:00 to 11:00 at the Newhailes Visitor Centre and cost £2.  For more information, contact the property on 0844 493 2124 or email hlevene@nts.org.uk.