Green space is hard to find in Islington, one of London’s busiest boroughs. But in our local parks, something wonderful is happening. The council-funded Little Seedlings project gives families with under-fives a chance to slow down, enjoy nature, and play outdoors — right on their doorstep. 

Why Little Seedlings matters 

Life today often keeps us indoors, glued to screens and busy schedules. In Islington, most people, around 71%, don’t have a private garden, so finding nature isn’t easy. But even a few minutes outside, listening to birds or standing under a tree, can make a big difference to how we feel. 

That’s why The Garden Classroom (TGC) was created 17 years ago: to nurture nature connection locally. For children, these experiences are vital. 

Little Seedlings brings nature to families through free, drop-in sessions in Barnard Park, Highbury Fields, and Whittington Park. Each one is designed to spark curiosity, creativity, and connection. 

What happens at a session? 

Picture a space where children explore freely: 

• mud kitchens for messy play and discovery 

• water stations with pipes and shoots for problem-solving fun 

• craft tables for leaf crowns and seasonal creations 

• wooden blocks for towers, tunnels, and imaginative builds.

Sessions finish with seasonal songs and shared healthy snacks — platters of fresh fruit and veg — creating a warm, social atmosphere for parents and carers. It’s about more than play: it’s about community, reducing isolation, and belonging. 

Planting the seed for long-term impact 

Council support has been key to Little Seedlings’ success. By funding sessions and working closely with TGC, Islington has helped create a model that’s practical and impactful. Park rangers keep spaces safe, while partnerships with Adult Community Learning and Bright Start strengthen the offer for families. 

This collaboration has even attracted new funding to expand the project. As TGC CEO Emma Hayworth says: 

“Our relationship with the council is really special. They planted the seed, and now it’s growing.”

Looking ahead 

By giving Islington’s youngest residents the chance to play, learn, and grow in nature, we’re enriching childhood and investing in community wellbeing. 

Sessions continue into next year. If you’re a parent or carer with a little one, why not drop by? Together, we can keep planting seeds of connection – one muddy handprint at a time.