Frequently Asked Questions
Looking for information about Bush Kindy sessions, educator training, or how to get involved?
This FAQ covers everything from what to bring and how to book, to outdoor learning safety, accessibility, insurance, volunteering, and cultural responsiveness. Whether you're a parent, educator, student, council partner, or community member, you'll find practical answers and next steps right here.
What is Bush Kindy?
Bush Kindy is a play-based learning approach that takes place in outdoor environments. Children explore nature’s loose parts, build connections with others, and learn alongside educators. It’s also known as Bush Kindergarten, Bush Kinder, Nature Play, Forest School, Nature Immersion, or Beach Kindy.
What is nature play, and why is it important?
Nature play is open-ended, unstructured play in outdoor environments, using natural materials and surroundings. It supports children’s physical health, emotional regulation, creativity, and cognitive development, while fostering a deep connection to the land and environment. Nature play encourages curiosity, resilience, and lifelong learning through hands-on experiences.
What does “place-based” and “child-led” learning mean?
Place-based learning means our sessions are shaped by the local environment — we adapt to each site’s unique features, culture, and community. Child-led learning means children guide their experiences through their interests, questions, and natural curiosity. Educators observe and support rather than direct, allowing meaningful learning to unfold naturally.
Do your programs align with the Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF)?
Yes. All programs reflect the principles and practices of the EYLF, including belonging, being and becoming, sustainability, cultural responsiveness, and learning through play.
What ages are the programs for?
Unless stated otherwise, Bush Kindy Teaching programs welcome all ages — including babies, young children, and extended family members like elders, grandparents, aunts and uncles.
Is Bush Kindy suitable for children with additional needs?
Yes — Bush Kindy programs are designed to be inclusive and supportive of diverse needs and abilities. Sessions offer sensory-rich experiences, flexible participation, and gentle transitions. We encourage you to share any specific requirements before attending so we can provide the best support possible.
Do you offer programs in other languages?
Our sessions are primarily delivered in English, but we welcome culturally and linguistically diverse families. If you're a community organisation looking to collaborate or offer language-specific support, we’d love to talk further.
Do parents/carers stay during sessions?
Yes — parents and carers are expected to stay and supervise their own child/ren at all times. Active participation in play experiences is part of the session, including connecting with others, helping with setup or pack-up, and contributing to a supportive, shared learning environment.
What are the roles of parents/carers during sessions?
Parents and carers are expected to:
Supervise their child/ren
Actively engage in play
Assist with setup and pack-up
Participate in songs, stories, and shared experiences
Contribute recycled materials or skills (e.g. cooking, crafts, music)
What should we bring to a Bush Kindy session?
Bring enclosed shoes, spare clothes, a hat, water bottle, SunSmart clothing, and weather-appropriate gear (rain jackets, gumboots). A towel and bag for wet clothes and insect repellent are also helpful.
What happens during a typical session?
Sessions usually follow a gentle rhythm: arrival and sign-in, free nature play, optional bushwalk, group time with songs/stories, and shared pack-up. Activities are child-led, with facilitators guiding optional experien
Do you cancel in bad weather?
Sessions proceed in most weather. We only cancel due to high winds (45km/h+), electrical storms, heavy rain, or extreme heat (36°C+). Updates are posted by 6:30am via email and social media.
What are your safety practices for things like tree climbing and stick play?
Safety is central to all programs. Tree climbing requires three points of contact and independent climbing. Stick play is guided by awareness and safe distance. Risk-benefit assessments are used for all activities.
Can I bring food?
Yes, but please take your rubbish and leftovers with you. We encourage zero-waste practices.
Can I bring my pet?
Please check in advance. Some venues don’t permit animals, and some children may have allergies.
Can I take photos?
Yes, but only of your own children and for personal use. Please do not photograph others without their permission.
Why are some programs free?
Thanks to funding from councils, community partners, and grants, many Bush Kindy programs are free to ensure access for all families.
How do I cancel my ticket to a session?
If you can’t attend, follow the cancellation instructions in your Eventbrite confirmation email so we can offer your place to another family.
Are children and educators covered by insurance during sessions?
Yes — all Bush Kindy programs are fully insured. Our public liability and professional indemnity cover is in place for all registered sessions. If you'd like a copy of our insurance certificate, just contact us.
Do you offer professional development for educators?
Do your programs include First Nations perspectives or cultural responsiveness?
Yes. We deeply value cultural responsiveness and strive to embed inclusive practices into all programs. We work respectfully with local communities and acknowledge Traditional Custodians of the land. Our professional development also supports educators to reflect on cultural safety and embed First Nations perspectives in nature-based education.
What’s the difference between onsite and online training?
Can the training be customised for our team or service?
Do you offer training for schools and OSHC, or just early childhood?
How long are the training sessions?
We offer short twilight sessions, half-days, full-days, or multi-day intensives. Our popular 2-part “Theory to Practice” format bridges learning with action.
How many educators can attend an onsite session?
Can we book training for multiple services or a network?
Does the training count toward our professional development hours?
Do participants receive a certificate?
Are sessions suitable for new educators or students?
What topics can we choose from?
We want to start a Bush Kindy at our centre — can you help?
Do you offer site assessments and risk/benefit planning?
Can you help us design our outdoor space?
Do I need special tech to attend a webinar?
Are the webinars recorded?
Can I book a private webinar for my team?
Can you support nature-based initiatives in our local area?
Yes. We collaborate with councils, Indigenous organisations, and not-for-profits to co-create outdoor learning programs that align with community goals.
Can you run a pop-up Bush Kindy at our community event?
Absolutely. We deliver pop-up sessions for festivals, community days, and public activations — providing families with hands-on, engaging nature play.
Do you provide insurance and risk assessments for events?
Yes. All programs are fully insured and risk assessments are available on request.
I want to help — what can I do?
Businesses and professionals can contribute by offering mini workshops — from bee education and bush regeneration to wildlife talks and cultural storytelling. We also gladly accept donations of quality items such as stainless steel kitchenware for our mud kitchens, nature craft materials, and loose parts for creative play.
TAFE and university students are encouraged to enquire about placement or internship opportunities.
We're currently exploring funding and insurance pathways to support a more formal volunteer program. If you’d like to be contacted when opportunities become available — or if you’re ready to contribute now — please get in touch.
What areas do you service?
Do you provide resources after training?
How do I book or register for a program or training?
Can group sizes be adjusted based on the program or location?
How can I give feedback?
Can I request documents like risk assessments or insurance?
Who do I contact if I have more questions?
Ready to Join the Bush Kindy Community?
Whether you're a parent, educator, service leader or community partner, we’re here to support your journey into nature-based learning.
Explore our programs, book a training session, or reach out to discuss how we can work together.
