There’s nothing more meaningful than a childhood spent outdoors in nature, exploring, going on adventures and most importantly jumping in puddles!

Join us for a weekly bush kids program where families gather to enjoy all the benefits that nature has to offer at Westerfolds Park in Templestowe, situated beside the Yarra River with over 120 hectares of recreational and environmental bushland to explore.

Our Bush kids program is for children aged 3.5 -6 years and is specifically aimed at developing and learning bushcraft and bush survival skills through hands-on activities, Australian/Aboriginal inspired stories and educational bush walks that focus on being fully present and connected to nature. There are also plenty of opportunities for children to use their bodies to develop gross motor skills through climbing, balancing and building.

We investigate a different topic each week and each term a different theme from Seasonal Changes, Life Cycles, Indigenous stories, local history and culture, ecosystems etc. The children will also be introduced to the use of tools in an age-appropriate and safe environment. Research clearly shows that the more time your child spends in nature, the better they are prepared for school, both physically and emotionally.

Bush kindy is led by Adam who has been delivering bush programs to families for over two years. He spent his childhood living and camping in the bush; climbing mountains, exploring rivers, learning to fish, track, make fires and to simplify… just ‘being’ at one in nature. Adam now hopes to share his childhood & adult experiences with the next generation to inspire a deep connection with nature. He has a background in Outdoor Education and is a trained level 3 forest school leader.

Our program is also a time for parents to disconnect from their busy lives (and technology) and re-connect with their child in nature. This time is as much for you as it is for your child. Our bush kids’ program brings together a community of like-minded parents who are supportive and welcoming.

It’s an all-weather outdoor program so you need to make sure you bring appropriate weather protection and clothing. Children must have closed footwear when walking in the bush, wet weather gear, plenty of snacks and water and a change of clothes. Our playgroup will only be cancelled in the event of an extreme weather warning; fire, storm, high temperatures and strong wind.

Ages: 3 1/2  – 6 years (siblings under 14 months are welcome to attend for free).

*Parents are responsible for their children at all times.