Yesterday, our Dadlands group, a dedicated space for dads and male carers of children with additional needs, run by Little Hiccups, headed out to the beautiful This Green Moon  in Swillington for a well-earned afternoon of connection and fresh air.

Stepping into the woods, the focus immediately shifted from the daily rush to the simple rhythm of nature. We gathered around the campfire, pulled up a seat with a hot coffee, and got our hands busy stripping wood with shells to make kindling and whittling custom butter knives. 

Beyond the craft, it gave everyone a chance to explore the incredible woodland space, see the fantastic projects This Green Moon has built, and, most importantly, talk openly with other dads who just get it.

Why Nature & Craft Matter for Mental Health

Taking peer support outside isn’t just a change of scenery; it completely shifts how we connect:

Breaks the Eye-Contact Barrier: Sitting side-by-side around a fire or focusing on a hands-on task like whittling takes away the pressure of a traditional face-to-face chat. The conversation just flows naturally while your hands are busy.

Lowers Stress Hormones: Immersing yourself in green space often called “forest bathing” is proven to lower cortisol levels, reduce heart rate, and ease mental fatigue.

Grounding & Mindfulness: Working with natural materials (like wood and shells) forces you to slow down, drop into the present moment, and give your mind a break from ongoing worry or stress.

Builds Shared Camaraderie: Learning or practicing a outdoor craft together creates a shared sense of accomplishment and strengthens the trust within the group.

A huge thank you to This Green Moon for welcoming us into their woods. It was a brilliant reminder of how powerful a campfire, a bit of woodwork, and honest conversation in the open air can be.