by Alice Scarsi
Skelwith Fold Caravan Park has found a way to make nature interesting again for kids
Skelwith Fold Caravan Park in Ambleside, Cumbria, has found a new and exciting way to make nature more interesting than technology for its younger visitors (and some of their parents too).
In order to stop children peering constantly at their phones whilst on holiday, the park, situated within the beautiful Lake District, last year launched an ongoing ‘Secret Squirrels’ competition, where children were challenged to find six toy squirrels hidden around the park and take pictures of them on their smartphones to earn their reward, a furry friend to take home.
Since launching the competition, Skelwith Fold claims to have given away over 400 prizes, a figure proving how popular it has proven amongst those more familiar with Tweets coming from their phone as opposed to the forest. And with 130 acres of green space surrounding the park, the children have plenty of space to enjoy the nature, exercise outdoors and playing around instead that on their noble devices. “It’s amazing just how keen children are to swap social media such as Twitter and Facebook for the wider world, given the chance,” commented park director Henry Wild.
“Skelwith Fold abounds with wildlife which is easily missed if much of a youngster’s time outdoors is spent scanning their devices for messages.” The squirrel hunt, though, has changed this habit.
“We find that mums and dads also often tag along, and point out some of the many bird species we have at Skelwith with the help of an identification chart we supply,” he continued.
Encouraging its visitors to get involved with nature played a role in Skelwith Fold receiving the David Bellamy Conservation Award, once again at its top gold level. Moreover, another sign which proves the high quality of the park comes from the praise received by HRH Prince Charles for the successful re-introduction of red squirrels.
“With just a little egging-on, youngsters can quickly develop a deep fascination for wildlife, and the Lake District is one of the best places in Britain to start.
“Social media is a great thing, and we use it a lot ourselves. But sometimes the small screen is no substitute for the bigger picture all around you!” added Henry.
What do you think of this park’s initiative? We at CaravanTimes think anything that gets kids’ faces out of their phones and more at one with nature is pretty good going. Let us know what you think below.
