Beliefs:

· child-led (very little adult-directed, fit-in-a-box activities)

· children seen as strong, capable, competent, empowered, independent

· connection and community-building

· flexible program to build on children’s interests each week

· open-ended questions and discussion

· building indigenous understanding

· sustainability focus,

· encouraging involvement and love of local natural places

· adults are playmates/ co-learners/ co-collaborators (follow kids lead in imaginative play)

Benefits:

· developing and using senses

· fine and gross motor development opportunities

· ample opportunities for developing risk intelligence, fine and gross motor skills, resilience,

· social skills such as teamwork, taking turns, problem solving, learning from others, multi-age play opportunities

· mental health benefits for all ages, including adults

· when people are connected to spaces, they become environmental stewards, our future is brighter

· Plenty of sunshine, fresh air and grounding

· freedom from enclosed spaces (eg classrooms/offices)