Ella feels inspired by the enthusiasm and excitement of the children and loves these sessions because the children can explore in a relaxed setting. Even though the sessions are structured and educational, they also allow the children to guide the free play so they learn many other key skills. Ella loves nature because it brings people together. She feels like nature is constantly teaching, inspiring and humbling her as well as providing a space where she can be herself and find peace and relaxation.

Where was the photo taken?
This photo was taken at a My Wild Child session at Horfield Common in Bristol

What were you doing while the photo was being taken?Volunteering at an outdoor play session for toddlers. Helping the children to explore and learn about the nature and environment around them. Reading stories relevant to the session.

What were you feeling at the time?
During the My Wild Child sessions I always feel inspired and awed by the enthusiasm and excitement of the children. I get huge enjoyment out of exploring the park with the children and helping them learn.

What do you love about nature and/or this place or activity specifically?
I love this activity in this place because it gives children a chance to explore in a relaxed setting, the park is safe and small enough that the children are protected but they feel like they have the independence to run around and explore. I love the sessions because although they are structured and educational they allow the children to guide the learning and the free play so that they learn so many other key skills.

I love nature for a host of reasons that I cannot fully put into words. I love nature because it brings people together and teaches us many things. It is constantly teaching me, inspiring me and humbling me as well as providing a space where I can be myself and find peace and relaxation.

What can you share about your story with nature?Nature has always been a huge part of my life and it seems natural that I should spend my life showing other people how amazing it can be.

Why is nature important to you?
Huge question! Because it is more than we as humans deserve, it provides everything that we need to sustain ourselves; physically and emotionally.

Find out more about our My Wild child project, supported by players of People's Postcode Lottery here.