Nature Steps : Learning about Hedgehogs
Wide Awake Hedgehog: Story of the week
Wide-Awake Hedgehog by Rosie Wellesley not only entertains the children but also deepens their understanding of hibernation and the behaviour of hedgehogs during different seasons. The beautifully illustrated pages and relatable story make it an engaging read for young learners, encouraging them to reflect on the natural world around them. After reading the book, many are inspired to explore more about hedgehogs and their fascinating lifestyles. This charming story follows the adventures of a little hedgehog named Isaac, who struggles to fall asleep when winter arrives. While all the other hedgehogs settle into hibernation, Isaac remains wide awake, filled with curiosity and a desire to stay active. The children are captivated by Isaac’s journey as he navigates his sleepless nights and interacts with other animals who are also awake during the winter months.



Learning About Hedgehogs
Hedgehogs are small mammals known for their distinctive spines and nocturnal habits. They are solitary animals that enjoy roaming gardens and woodlands in search of food. They feed mainly on insects, worms, and small animals. Hedgehogs are excellent at controlling garden pests, which makes them beloved by many gardeners.
One of the most unique things about hedgehogs is their ability to hibernate. Hedgehogs enter hibernation when the weather gets too cold, typically between November and March. During this time, they slow down their heart rate, reduce their body temperature, and remain in a deep sleep to conserve energy.






Exploring Factual Books
We use many books filled with fascinating facts about hedgehogs. We learn how hedgehogs can travel up to two miles in one night looking for food, and how they can curl up into a tight ball to protect themselves from predators. Also learns that hedgehogs are becoming increasingly endangered due to habitat loss and road traffic, sparking an idea in him to find ways to help protect them.
Creative Activities: Making Clay Hedgehogs
As part of his learning journey, the children also discovers how much fun it can be to engage in creative activities to understand more about hedgehogs. One popular activity that children and adults alike can enjoy is making clay hedgehogs. This hands-on project can be done individually or in a group setting. In groups, everyone can share their ideas and create a whole family of clay hedgehogs, each with unique features and personalities.
On an individual level, making a clay hedgehog allows for a more personal connection to the animal. Participants can focus on crafting the details, like the spines, eyes, and tiny paws, while thinking about how hedgehogs live and behave. This fun, tactile activity not only helps to solidify learning about hedgehogs but also sparks creativity and a sense of accomplishment when the little clay creatures are finished. It’s a great way to bring the wide-awake hedgehog’s adventure to life!












Hedgehog Hunt: “We’re Going to Find a Spiky One!”
Another exciting activity this week was a Hedgehog Hunt, where we embarked on an outdoor adventure to search for signs of hedgehogs. With the enthusiastic chant, “We’re going to find a spiky one!” the group sets off, equipped with magnifying glasses and notebooks, ready to discover hedgehog tracks, nests, or even the hedgehogs themselves.
The Hedgehog Hunt not only helps children connect with nature but also teaches important observation skills. Along the way, they might find hedgehog homes or discover how to make gardens more hedgehog-friendly. This thrilling adventure brings the Wide-awake Hedgehog story to life as everyone searches for their very own “Isaac” friend!



Science Experiment: Heating Up Pine Cones
As part of their learning adventure, the children took part in a fun science experiment involving pine cones. The children gathered closed pine cones and and we placed in the grate on top of the forest fire. As the pine cones heat up, the scales slowly begin to open, revealing their intricate structure. The children watch in amazement, making the connection that the pine cones, when fully opened, resemble the appearance of hedgehogs!
This simple experiment not only introduces children to the science of how pine cones respond to temperature but also sparks their imagination as they relate it to hedgehogs. Afterward, the group excitedly goes on a pine cone hunt, searching for these natural treasures in the woods or gardens. Collecting and comparing pine cones is a fun way to reinforce the lesson and make learning about hedgehogs even more interactive and memorable.








