For toddlers aged 18 months to 4 years

A gentle woodland group for mums and toddlers with autism

Take time away from the busy world with your little one. Messy play, stories, crafts and all the fun of the forest, in a small and familiar group where sensory differences are understood.

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A toddler in a blue raincoat and wellies standing in a puddle among autumn leaves

A toddler climbing over tree stumps in the woods

Messy play welcome

What we do

All the fun of the forest, at your toddler's pace

Each week is a chance to explore the woods, take part in creative activities, chat with other mums and enjoy nature and calm. There is no right way to join in.

Sensory play

Sound and texture with spoons, pots and rattles, wooden shapes, branches, tree bark, mud and lots more.

Create

Make and build with leaves, mud, stones and sticks. Messy hands are very welcome.

Stories and songs

Gather around to exchange stories, sing nursery rhymes and move to the rhythm of nature.

Relax and recharge

Sit under the trees, feel the earth beneath your feet, lie in a hammock or stroll a forest path together.

Explore nature

Join in your toddler's curiosity: listening to the forest, touching trees, leaves and stones, smelling flowers.

Connect

Imagination is at the heart of play. Share the freedom of the woodlands with your toddler and with other mums.

Small hands holding a pine cone on a tree stump

A toddler in a bright raincoat exploring the forest floor

A toddler sitting on a sunlit woodland path

Good for both of you

How nature nurtures developing brains

Why mums love it

Slow down and unwind in nature
Connect with other mums
Disconnect from daily demands
Enjoy a small, familiar group
Chat and exchange ideas and experience

How toddlers benefit

Builds balance, co-ordination and motor skills
Supports language development
Encourages independence
Helps with self-regulation
It's fun!

You are not alone

If the labels feel overwhelming

It can be upsetting to notice your toddler showing signs of sensory overload or delayed speech. Perhaps you have had news that your toddler is on the autism spectrum. With so many labels, it can be confusing to navigate the language and the options available to families.

Everyday information can be hard for autistic children to process, as their senses may be over-active, under-active or both. Running about in nature, climbing on logs, balancing on tree stumps and swinging in hammocks can help little ones feel calmer, more confident and more at home in their bodies.

"Join me to share stories and enjoy some time away from the busy world with your toddler."Mary, Forest School Leader

Book a place

A mum and her toddler together in the woods, seen from behind

Sessions

The practical bits

A small group, the same faces each week, and plenty of time to settle in.

When Sample

Saturday mornings
10:00am to 11:30am

Where Sample

A private woodland in Co. Wicklow. Directions are sent when you book.

Group size Sample

Up to 8 toddlers, each with their mum.

Fee Sample

€15 per session, or €80 for a block of 6.
Babes in arms are free with a paying toddler.

What to bring Sample

Wellies or sturdy shoes
Waterproofs and warm layers
A spare change of clothes
A drink and a snack
A comfort item, if it helps

About

Hello, I'm Mary

I am a Forest School Leader and Early Years Educator. Years of supporting children with autism and ADHD led me to train in Therapeutic Play, and later in Therapeutic Play in Nature and Nature Based Sensory Play.

Combining these skills gives me the tools to support each child's individual needs and strengths, and to create a nurturing space for families to thrive.

BA Early Years Education
Forest School Leader
Therapeutic Play Cert
Outdoor Therapeutic Play
Nature Based Sensory Play
Teaching Council registered

Questions

Things mums often ask Sample answers

Does my toddler need a diagnosis?

No. The group is for toddlers who are on the autism spectrum or who have sensory challenges, with or without a formal diagnosis.

What if my toddler doesn't want to join in?

That is completely fine. Children can watch, wander or do their own thing. There is a quiet spot to retreat to, and nobody will mind a wobble or a meltdown.

What happens if the weather is bad?

We go ahead in light rain, as puddles are part of the fun. In high winds or weather warnings the session is cancelled and you will get a text and a credit.

Can dads, grandparents or carers come?

Yes. The group is designed around mums, but any one trusted grown-up is welcome to come along with your toddler.

Can I bring my baby too?

Yes. Babes in arms accompanying a paying toddler are free.

Can I talk to Mary before booking?

Please do. Text or email and Mary will schedule a time for a chat about your toddler and what would help them settle.

Book online

Save your place in the woods

Choose a morning, tell us a little about your toddler, and Mary will be in touch to confirm.

Prefer a chat first?

Text Mary on 087 982 8611
or email [email protected]