Nurturing a Connection with the Outside World and One Another
The idea for Wonderhood Playgroup is rooted in the belief that children thrive when they have the time and space to explore the world around them.
“With so many modern distractions, families are looking for opportunities to slow down, reconnect, and enjoy the richness of play in nature,” said founder Yasmin Rankin.
Yasmin wanted to offer a place where old school exploring and creating in the great outdoors were celebrated. She wanted to gift children with time to play outside and for families to connect with their local community. The playgroup encourages both young and older alike to open their wings of imagination. Yasmin endeavoured to bring this to life in a way that felt fresh, fun and meaningful for today’s families.
Yasmin is inspired to blend nature, curiosity and play into activities that feel both important and magical, supporting their wellbeing of all involved.
We spoke with Yasmin, learning more about the importance of nature play and the experiences Wonderhood creates for families.
What kind of engaging environments do you create for kids and families?
We design spaces that feel alive filled with natural textures, sensory richness, and endless possibilities. Wooden blocks, leaves, seeds, stones… these simple materials become gateways to creativity. Families often tell us Wonderhood feels calming and grounding, yet full of discovery.
What do you love most about the creative process of setting up a playgroup space for families to discover?
I love watching a simple hall or patch of grass transform into a world of imagination. The joy is in layering small details, like a basket of pinecones or a trail of shells that spark curiosity. Seeing children and parents discover those details for the first time makes the process so rewarding.
What experiences do you love seeing the children enjoy most?
I absolutely love seeing the wonder in a child’s eyes when something truly excites them. All the children enjoy the activities, but there is always one moment whether it is a theme, a craft, or a discovery that really lights a child up. I love noticing what that spark is and then weaving it back into the environment later in the day, so they can rediscover it.
“It is such a joy to see children not only enjoying themselves but also learning in such a meaningful and personal way.”
In what ways do you nurture curiosity, creativity and a deep connection to nature at playgroup?
Each class is an open invitation to explore, but with a gentle structure that helps children feel secure. We begin the morning by introducing the weekly theme- often with a “What’s in the bag?” activity to spark curiosity and awaken the senses. From there, we move into indoor learning stations, where children can explore different textures and sensory invitations. Then it is time for an outdoor activity, often something that gets the children moving and connecting with the natural world; before we return indoors to finish with a craft. Every step ties back into the theme of the week, giving children both freedom and rhythm in their learning.
In what ways does hands-on learning benefit children and families?
For children, hands-on learning means learning with all their senses. Touching, building, pouring, mixing these activities strengthen neural pathways, develop fine and gross motor skills, and keep children deeply engaged. For families, hands-on learning creates shared moments and, just as importantly, connections with one another.
“Being a parent of young children can sometimes feel isolating, but at Wonderhood there is a warm community of mums, dads, grandparents, and friends who all join in. It is heart-warming to see those friendships grow not just between the children, but between the parents as well.”
In what ways do you bring parents, carers and little ones together at playgroup?
Our sessions are built for togetherness. Parents sing, craft, and explore right alongside their children. Those small moments, kneeling together to plant seeds, sharing tea after a song creates bonds that strengthen both the family unit and the wider community.
What is the power of shared experiences at playgroup?
Shared experiences create a sense of belonging. Research shows that when we laugh, sing, or move together, we feel more connected and supported. At Wonderhood, these moments become anchors of joy and safety for both children and adults.
How does nature-based learning support the wellbeing of the child? How does it support the family unit?
“Nature has been proven to reduce stress, boost mood, and improve focus. For children, that means more calm and creativity. For families, it means time together in an environment that restores rather than drains. A walk in nature, a shared craft with leaves, or a simple moment outdoors can make everyone feel more grounded.”
What can a family expect at one of your playgroup sessions?
Expect to feel welcomed, to slow down and to see your child light up with discovery. Sessions are hands-on, joyful, and community centred. Families often leave with happy children, new ideas for play at home, and a deeper sense of connection.
Often play can be seen as an aside to formal education. What is the power of play and learning through play?
Play is how children learn best. It develops creativity, emotional resilience, problem-solving and social skills. International research highlights play as essential for building 21st-century skills. When children play, they are preparing for life.
In what ways do activities like creating fairy gardens and stirring the imagination in the great outdoors lead to life-long skills and an understanding of the natural world?
“These activities nurture imagination, patience and care for living things. When children create with nature, they build not only fine motor skills but also a deep respect for the environment. That respect grows into lifelong stewardship a gift for them and for the planet.”
In what ways do you value the early years?
The early years are the foundation for everything that follows.
“Neuroscience tells us that most of a child’s brain development happens before age five. That’s why experiences of play, connection, and discovery during this time are so powerful.”
At Wonderhood, we treat these years as a precious window where children’s natural curiosity can be nurtured into lifelong skills.
What roles have you had in early childhood education?
I have been a guide, facilitator and program creator, but at the heart of it, my role is always to connect. Whether it is through designing environments or being alongside children in play, I see myself as both a leader and a co-learner.
Why does community building matter to you?
Because children and parents alike need connection. In today’s busy world, it is easy to feel isolated.
“Playgroup is where friendships spark, encouragement flows, and families feel part of something bigger. Community is the soil in which children and families grow strong.”
What makes your community unique?
Wonderhood is more than a playgroup- it is a collective of families who value nature, creativity and connection. It feels boutique, intentional, and designed with care. Families come not just for activities, but for an experience that reflects their values.
You started as a farm-based playgroup. How has your playgroup evolved over time?
The farm was where Wonderhood first came to life, surrounded by wide open spaces and animals. It gave us our grounding. Over time, we have evolved into a community hall-based program, which has made our sessions more accessible for families. The heart of Wonderhood- connection to nature, play and community remains, but now it is within reach for more people to enjoy.
What do you hope the children remember from their playgroup days?
“I hope they remember the joy of discovery the way mud felt in their hands, the wonder of spotting a bug, the warmth of community songs. These memories become part of their story, guiding them to value curiosity, connection, and nature as they grow.”
When you reflect on your time creating wonder for families, what positive things stand out to you? In what ways do you feel the benefit for younger and older alike?
I see the glow on a child’s face when they master something new, and the smile of a parent who feels less alone. For children, it is confidence and creativity. For parents, it’s connection and reassurance. Wonderhood brings joy to the whole family, reminding us that play and community are not extras—they are essentials.
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Article by Sinead Halliday
Photography Courtesy of Yasmin Rankin