5 Oct 2018

Inspiring 2033’s rangers

Three young children in school uniform are taking part in an outdoor event. The two children in the front are holding binoculars.

We’re trying to inspire the next generation of nature experts.

Getting children outside comes with a huge range of benefits. And it’s never been more necessary. Recent research shows that children are spending more of their free time at screens than outside.

So, we think it’s important to give our young people the chance to experience nature from an early age. Our Nature Nippers groups were set up to educate and inspire young children to spend more time outdoors loving Scotland and helping them discover the country’s natural beauty.

By coming along to Nature Nippers, children see some of Scotland’s most stunning locations, spot wonderful wildlife and learn from our expert rangers.

They also get the chance to develop their skills and confidence, as Ian Cornforth, Head Ranger at Culzean explained: ‘Nature Nippers is all about wee ones and their grown-ups spending time and having fun outdoors. Alongside this there are many benefits to having fun and exploring the natural world – fresh air, physical fitness, building confidence, increasing inquisitiveness and hopefully forming a love of the natural environment. Our group also helps widen the children’s social circles and interactions, creating new friendships in the process.’

Of course, we’re hoping that these positive early experiences with the outdoors will inspire the next generation of rangers, ready to play their part in protecting Scotland’s heritage now and for future generations.

Nature Nippers events take place across Scotland including Culzean Castle in Ayrshire, Hill of Tarvit in Fife, Dunkeld in Perthshire and Glencoe, and are suitable for children under 5.