PLAYFUL KINDY

(bush kindy)

Term 2 Mini-Series- book now

Clay, Mud & Bugs- 23rd April

Cubbies, Whittling & Picnics- 30th April

Kids Choice- 7th May

Click to Join US now

Time: 9-11am

Day: Tuesday mornings during school terms

Age: Aimed at 3-6 years

Non-drop off program (parents must stay)

Price: ranging from $25 - $35 per child (under 12months free)

******Book multiple sessions for discounted rates- eg Mini-series******

Location: Peacehaven Park, Highfields

Overview: This is where our 3-6year old children can really thrive. Check out below for details about common things to expect.

A typical session will start with acknowledgement & introductions, a story or rhyme, and chatting through options for the session (this varies so much depending on what is offered). Then the children can choose their own adventure, from nature crafts to tool use, from tree climbing and whittling, ropes and buckets, to our own version of a natural obstacle course and ‘mud’ kitchen (insert any texture). We then end the session with some group time together, with a focus on gratitude, mindfulness, sharing or literacy. This may also be a time where we make plans to include the childrens’ requests into the next session (for example bringing other resources to follow their play interests). Not every session covers all of these things, see below for what is included and not, and read the session info to check activities.

This session is designed specifically for 3-6yo. For younger children, please see our Nature Playgroup. Saying that, everyone is welcome at Playful Kindy, and there will be some activities available with younger children in mind. As a non-drop-off program, children are your responsibility at all times, including around riskier play. We are hoping to offer drop-off Bush Kindy sessions in the future.

Please Note: My own children often join me at sessions (with support) and will sometimes need my attention.

Join us outside for bush sessions, where children are SEEN AS empowered and capable.

  • All sessions:

    nature crafts and bush exploration (fine and gross motor)

    songs, rhymes, stories (literacy)

    mud, dirt, sticks etc (5 senses and grounding)

    a community of like-minded families (find your village)

    a focus on children’s desires- building on their interests (very much child-led)

    sustainability themes

    sensory-rich (naturally)

    mindfulness, gratitude (mental health skills)

  • activities we often offer:

    · tarps/ ropes/ shelters/ pulleys/ knots

    · tool use (hand drills and hammers)

    · whittling

    · tree climbing

    · nature crafts

    large loose parts

    · walks and exploration time

    · huts

    · plant and animal ID

    · indigenous connection

    · giving back to country

    · almost anything (if we truly follow their interests, who knows where we could end up!)

    Please note these are dependent on two things- group interest, and staff to participant ratios for insurance and safety purposes.

  • What to Bring:

    · Food and water

    · Hat

    · Closed in shoes

    · Sun-safe, comfortable clothing

    · Insect repellent/ sunscreen

    · A change of clothes

    · Wet weather gear if rain is predicted

    · Shoes you are happy to get wet/muddy (optional)

  • Tips

    · Don’t wear your best clothes, older clothes are the go!

    · Carriers are a REALLY good option for younger kids/babies.

    · We have playmats to share, but a mat is not a bad idea if you have space.

    Email Chrissie to request certain options well in advance or follow along with our themes (when we have them).