WAYS OF THE WILD

Once a month, our much-loved Mud Kitchen pops up in Ravenscourt Park, inviting children (and grown-ups!) into some seriously messy play.

As a community-driven business, we aim to keep our sessions accessible, offering at least one free event each month - enter: the Mud Kitchen (and the Mud Monster Parade!).

What is a Mud Kitchen?

An outdoor play space inspired by a kitchen, with pots, pans, and utensils - where children create recipes using mud, water, leaves, sticks, and whatever else they discover.

It’s our cheat code to get children to:

+ feel comfortable outdoors

+ explore their senses

+ build confidence through open-ended play and,

+ enjoy unhurried time in nature

Each session is a little different, but one thing is guaranteed: things will get muddy.

Timings & flow:

10:00–12:00, drop-in style. Arrive and leave whenever suits you - no pressure to stay the full time or join the picnic (though you’re very welcome!).

A note on mess:

We’re big on child-led play. This is a space to explore freely—so if you’re used to saying “don’t touch, it’s dirty,” this might be your invitation to let that go (just for today!).

Time in nature supports wellbeing, resilience, and confidence—and how adults respond to mess shapes children’s experience. We encourage you to relax… and maybe even get a little muddy too.

WHAT TO BRING:

+ Spare clothes & layers

+ Waterproof shoes / wellies

+ Waterproofs

+ Wipes or a small towel

+ Snacks, lunch & drinks

+ Picnic blanket

Mud face paint is wonderful—but clean clothes after are usually appreciated!

Picnic & wind-down:

After we pack away, you’re invited to stay for a relaxed picnic (if you haven't been snacking throughout!) time to refuel, rest, and connect.

Whether you’re here for messy play, sensory exploration, or a friendly chat, we’d love to see you there <3