Emergent Thinkers™

Today, the beautiful Llanelli Wetland Centre became the stage for an inspiring sensory climate workshop, where young minds came together to explore, create, and champion solutions to environmental challenges. Supported by LLAMA (Llanelli Autism Mams Association) and funded by the Welsh Government, the event welcomed children with autism, neurodiverse learners, and their families into a sensory-friendly and inclusive environment. It was an absolute privilege to support children, age 8-16, and staff from Ysgol Heol Goffa, Llanelli, as well as include a group of dedicated home learners, all of whom brought their unique perspectives and creativity to this enriching experience.

After a quick feelings check-in to gauge participants’ initial thoughts on climate change, the session began with our outdoor wetlands adventure. Together, we explored the vital role wetlands play in combating climate change, from their ability to filter water and reduce flooding to their extraordinary capacity to store carbon. As we walked the trail, we discussed the impact of pollution and habitat loss and the importance of protecting these natural spaces. The children’s curiosity was evident as they asked insightful questions and made thoughtful observations.

One particularly powerful moment came when some older participants reflected on how their daily actions could affect the wetlands. “I didn’t realise how plastic from home could end up here,” one remarked, and it was clear this realisation sparked a deeper connection to the challenges we’d been discussing. It was equally rewarding to see the younger learners engage with tactile exploration, observing reeds and wildlife up close while contemplating the impact of climate change.

The energy carried through to our indoor session, where we transitioned from observation to creation. The young people designed their own Wetlands Heroes – imaginative figures/designs to tackle the challenges they had discovered or discussed. Armed with craft supplies, recycled materials, and plenty of enthusiasm, they brought these designs to life. From robots that could clean polluted rivers and drones designed to efficiently plant seedlings, to recycling machines tackling waste and magical creatures with key messages on protecting nature and restoring habitats, their creations demonstrated a profound blend of creativity and problem-solving. Each idea reflected a deep engagement with the challenges explored and an inspiring commitment to finding solutions.

The workshop also invited a showcase of their creations, discussing their hero’s unique abilities or designs. After a pledge of personal commitment, there was a joyous celebration as all attendees were recognised as Wetlands Heroes; acknowledging their contributions to the climate conversation.

On behalf of myself (Emergent Thinkers™) and Dr Mike Goodfellow-Smith (Quest for Future Solutions), as facilitators of this event for the Welsh Government’s Climate Conversation programme, I’d like to extend a special thank you to Sarah Mitchell at the WWT Llanelli Wetland Centre for being such an enthusiastic and welcoming host. Enormous gratitude also goes to the fantastic team at LLAMA, driven by the ever-passionate Kath and Jess, for their invaluable support and dedication.

The energy and creativity shown by these young participants, alongside the incredible contributions of everyone involved today — including the dedicated staff at Llanelli Wetlands, Sarah and Cerith — fills me with great hope for the future and pride in the contributions from Llanelli. Their imaginative solutions remind us all that the next generation brings not only fresh ideas but also the determination needed to create a stronger, greener Wales. A special thank you also goes to Whispers Exclusive Artisan Bakery for the fantastic lunch spread, which was very much appreciated by our hungry explorers.

[Photo permissions: All images shared were taken with full consent from schools and participating families, following safeguarding protocols]

Felicity

Linked posts: Youth Optimism Lights the Way: Intergenerational Climate Conversations in Community Hub – Emergent Thinkers™