Into The Forest

“And into the forest I go, to lose my mind and find my soul.”
― John Muir

It feels as though autumn has been here for a while, especially now that the clocks have changed. Whatever else the season brings this year, it is providing a stunning backdrop against which to explore.

We spend a lot of time outside, in local woods and forests. Sometimes joining organised groups such as forest school, and other times walking the dogs on our own. And as I try to teach our son, I find myself learning new things about nature too.

For example, acorns. I always understood these to be poisonous. Nice to look at and craft with, but not suitable for anything else. Other than their important role as oak seeds and food for forest creatures. I appreciate why this might have been what I was taught as a child. In the words of the forest school leader to our son and his cohort before each session: “No picky, no licky.” Acorns do contain tannins, which can be harmful to humans, and have an unpleasant after-taste. If prepared properly though, acorn uses include acorn flour, acorn coffee, and roasted acorn snacks. The major health warning with acorns is that they are poisonous to dogs, cattle, and horses.

Horse chestnuts have been plentiful this year. We’ve amassed a small collection, which we have used for various crafts. I haven’t tried making any form of detergent from them, but have seen a number of recent online examples of people making soaps from conkers. This might be a project for next year, when our son is a bit older. Until then, we’ll continue with dreamcatchers and hanging displays.

As well as learning about autumn produce, forest school is an opportunity to practice using real tools for crafting. Under adult supervision, children use hammers and saws as they create. Toy toolkits are fun, but they are no substitute for learning how to work safely with the real things. This includes cleaning and storing the items when not in use. Having ended up in hospital with a badly mauled finger after being left unsupervised with an axe while away from home many years ago, I am very much in favour of teaching children when they’re young.

One of my favourite things about being outside, is the freedom to roam widely before encountering any boundaries. The trees form a natural surround, and beautiful backdrop against which to explore, while experiencing physical and mental benefits. It is so important to protect nature and all she embraces so future generations can find the same fulfilment. Who knows what this winter will bring. But we can be certain that the benefits of nature remain constant wherever we are. Into the forest we go; where we lose our minds and find our souls.