Can you remember playing conkers?

Testing dairy intolerances with a buttercup; seeing whether you were loved or not with a daisy or telling the time with a dandelion clock?

Many of our early play experiences outside involved wild plants and were handed down to us by parents or peers.

Going on an adventure with a young child is a fantastic way to not only support a child start to feel confident and safe in their local space but also a way to support a child develop natural curiosity and imaginative play - important skills as they become older and more independent.

Plantlife's Wild About Plants project has just launched their 'Flower Keys' a set of cards to unlock the outside, stimulating investigation, imagination and parent:child interaction. Each card takes a common wild plant that can be found in most urban green spaces and presents an environmental play activity that stems from that wild plant.

These cards have been designed for adults and children aged 3-7 years old and can be downloaded by visiting Wild About Plants. You may also like to check out Plantlife's seasonal expeditions, on the same web page, together with their nursery rhymes. Like the Flower Keys these are designed for use in any urban green space supporting families and children make the most of the nature on their doorstep and encouraging people to Love Outdoor Play.

Page last updated: 9th February 2011