I'm often asked about my unique approach to outdoor education. After two decades in early childhood education, I've seen firsthand how nature provides the perfect classroom for children's growth and development. Let me share what makes Bush Kindy special and how it can benefit your family.
What exactly is Bush Kindy? Whether you call it Bush Kinder, Nature Play, Forest Schooling, or Beach Kindy, my program centres on play-based learning in outdoor environments. Children interact freely with nature's loose parts and their peers in carefully selected locations across Daisy Hill, Loganholme, and Bahrs Scrub.
My sessions embrace unstructured play while incorporating intentional teaching moments. Your child might engage in loose parts play, arts and craft, nature exploration, or sensory activities with mud, sand, and clay. I also bring our community together through group songs, storytelling, and puppet time, with special sessions offering supervised risky play experiences. We frequently collaborate with experts sharing revegetation techniques to local beekeepers teaching us about honey production. Our families actively contribute too - sharing their knowledge about wildlife safety, bringing in found treasures like snake skins, and helping build our collective understanding of the natural world. These community connections enrich our learning experiences and help children develop deeper appreciation for our local environment and the people who care for it.
Inclusivity and accessibility are core to my philosophy. I welcome participants of all ages and abilities, from young children to community elders. Each location provides wheelchair access, shade, and diverse play experiences that delight all senses. I've found that the natural environment, free from walls and echoing sounds, creates a particularly comfortable space for those with sensory sensitivities.
Weather rarely stops us – we run rain or shine, except in cases of severe weather like electrical storms or high winds. I recommend dressing for adventure in long-sleeved cotton clothing, covered shoes, and sun protection. On wet days, children are welcome to put on their gumboots and rain gear for extra muddy fun!
Drawing from my 13 years of experience delivering early childhood education qualifications and as a certified trainer, I also offer professional development through workshops, online courses, and personal mentoring, Contact me if you're interested in these offerings.
Through partnerships with local organisations and funding opportunities, I strive to make many of our programs free, ensuring equal access to bush play for all communities. My commitment to sustainability extends to maintaining zero-waste programs, focusing on nature-based materials rather than food play.
Whether you're joining us at one of our regular locations or attending a pop-up event, I carefully consider group sizes to maximise each location's unique offerings. I follow children's interests and seasonal changes rather than holiday themes, creating meaningful experiences that respond to the group's natural curiosity.
Want to learn more or join our nature play community? I'd love to hear from you! Contact me to discuss program options, share feedback, or explore bringing Bush Kindy to your area.t
