I’ve written before about ‘nature deficit disorder’, and the way that 21^st century children have far fewer opportunities to encounter nature than previous generations. Without access to wild spaces, children live sedentary lives, with all the associated health problems. They lack freedom and adventure, and make up for it in screen time. And they risk growing up without developing a love for or curiosity about nature.

There’s an increasing awareness of this phenomenon and its potential consequences, and some creative responses. The National Trust has done some excellent work on it with their ’50 things’ campaign. There’s the growing Forest Schools network, books and documentaries like Project Wild Thing. Into that movement comes Learning with Nature: A how-to guide to inspiring children through outdoor games and activities, by Marina Robb, Victoria Mew and Anna Richardson.

All three authors are experienced practitioners, and the book speaks…