Join us for a weekly group (10 sessions) of nature connection, nature play and nature craft, art, stories, song, learning and exploration at Braeside Park…. An oasis of parkland nestled in a suburban sandbelt south-east of Melbourne which consists of woodlands and wetlands, offering plenty of space to explore and play.

Eco Explorers bush playgroups are facilitated by qualified and experienced nature play educators (read more about our team here) that offer a wide range of nature based, sensory play activities for your child to enjoy. There is a different theme each week, as well as our usual picnic and story time on the mat, song and craft sessions, climbing, balancing, building and learning about our natural environment.  Some of the activities include mud kitchen play, nature art and crafts, earth painting, nature stamping, creating with clay, hammering and exploring in nature.

This bush playgroup is run by Kate, a primary school teacher who specialises in outdoor art so our bush kids (and parents!) can get creative and messy in nature.

Our program has been developed to give your child optimum opportunity to build their gross motor and physical skills through climbing, balancing, walking and fine motor skills during our craft activities. Research clearly shows that the more time your child spends in nature, the better they are prepared for school, both physically and emotionally.

Playgroup allows 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 playgroups bring together a community of like-minded parents who are supportive and welcoming. The sessions are relaxed and completely child led and parents are encouraged to follow their child’s lead.

Bush playgroup is an all weather outdoor playgroup so you need to make sure you bring appropriate weather protection and clothing. Children must have closed footwear when walking in the bush, sun hats, sunscreen, 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: 1 – 5 years (siblings under 14 months are welcome to attend for free).

*Parents are responsible for their children at all times.