Winter survival

Learn all about hibernation and how animals cope with the autumn and winter seasons in the forest. Investigate how Doug the Dormouse builds his nest to keep warm and use scientific investigation to explore hibernation. Other activities include pine cone bird feeders, scavenger hunt, autumn colour match and squirrel food hunt challenge.

Suitable for:

KS1 and KS2

Duration:

Full day

Available at:

Sherwood Forest

Itinerary

On arrival one of our tutors will welcome your group to the Centre and go through the schedule for the day, learning objectives and health and safety issues
The day will begin with the children being led to the woodland area. Play migrate, hibernate or survive game
The children are introduced to Doug the Dormouse and the challenge of keeping him warm throughout the winter
Each group then sets up their own dormouse nest and scientific investigation
The day will begin with the children being led to the woodland area. Play migrate, hibernate or survive game
Selection of activities begins whilst checking the scientific investigation at certain intervals. Scavenger hunt, autumn colour match, squirrel food hunt
Look at results and draw conclusions together as a group
Head back to the centre
Lunch
Afternoon session starts with a winter bird walk where children identify and tally different types of birds in the bird feed area around St Johns hut and in the forest. Upon returning to the class room, children make pine cone bird feeders to take back to school.

Key learning outcomes

Learn about habitats and the needs of the animals during the winter season
To understand how animals adapt to survive
To think about conservation and looking after wildlife during the harsh winter season

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