What is Family Friendly Forest Therapy?

Forest Therapy is a contemporary practice that originated in Japan, where it is called Shinrin-Yoku, which translates to immersion in the atmosphere of the forest. This session had been adapted by Carolyn a trained Forest Therapy guide and teacher with extensive experience working with families and children in the natural environment.

Research shows that adults and children benefit greatly from being in nature and tuning in with all of the senses. This is a great way for you and your child/ren to do a digital detox.

What will happen on the day?

During this session adults are encouraged to participate and be guided by their child/ren’s interests. You will be introduced to a series of fun and engaging experiences designed to encourage curiosity and recognition of the amazing things in nature that often go unnoticed.

We will:

Tune our senses to the natural world
Get creative with natural found materials
Explore colours
Look closely at the world of tiny things
Have fun with a seek and find challenge
Walk and sit a little

Designed for children age 7-13 years. Younger siblings are welcome to join in at there level.

Children must be accompanied by an adult and places are limited to a maximum of 8 family groups.

Join Carolyn and other families on this session on Wurundjeri land, in one of the most intact examples of grassy woodland in the Melbourne Metropolitan region. Note this walk is less than 1.5km and on relatively flat tracks.

Time: Please arrive early so we can start at 9.30am.

Where: Gresswell Forest Nature Reserve, 233 Greenwood Drive, Bundoora, 3083. Meet near the BBQ shelter.

Parking: Limited off-street parking in car park.

Meet: Between the toilet block and the main gate into the Reserve

Wear: Closed toe shoes and comfortable clothing for the outdoors and suitable to the forecast weather conditions.

Please bring: In a daypack: water bottle, snacks (in case you get peckish), any medication, warm layers, sunhat, sunscreen & waterproof jacket. We will continue in light rain. Odourless insect repellant and a sit mat will be available but please bring your own if you prefer.

Please contact Carolyn if you have any questions.