Designed for children 2-5 years old accompanied by a guardian.

Join our experienced Early Years Outdoor Educator, at CERES Environment Park in Brunswick East, to discover our local, abundant ecology through nature play!

Activities vary with the seasons, and what is happening here at CERES and the Merri Creek. We plant seeds, meet and feed the chickens, make art with natural objects, investigate local insects and the Merri Creek, climb trees and have a good time! Every week the children are rewarded with more confidence, resilience, creativity, and gratitude for the land and people we live with.

"Being outdoors in nature offers unplanned, unknown, unpredictable encounters; these are significant provocations for learning." (Adapted from Waters, 2012)

Dates

Every Monday 10 am - 12 pm

Term 1: Mon 10th of February - Mon 7th of April 2025 (no session on Mon 10th of March due to public holiday)

Cost

$280 for 8 weeks, Concession $270

For each extra sibling aged 2+, there is an additional cost of $70. Children younger than 2 years are welcome to join their parents/guardians at no additional cost, but will not formally be a part of the group, and will be in the care of their parent/guardian.

Testimonials

"Really fantastic - the kids are still raving about it! They learned so much in the happy, relaxed and fun atmosphere - created by their amazing teacher :)"

"Loved the experience. Very relaxed. Great to get the children outdoors exploring. Can't wait for the next one."

"We had a wonderful term, a great mix of unstructured and structured play!"

What you'll learn

Nature-play and curiosity are at the heart of this program. Our thoughtfully designed learning experience will connect your children with nature, allow them to explore independently, discover the wonders of our natural world and participate in caring for our environment and people.

What you'll gain

Each week, your children will experience the wonders of the outdoors through semi-facilitated outdoor nature play experiences, examples include building bush cubbies, making art using natural objects, meeting insects & worms, netting for water bugs, planting seeds and harvesting veggies, walking along the Merri Creek plus more!

What to bring

Children should bring a hat, water bottle, and a snack. Consider bringing along a change of clothes as things may get messy!

What to wear

Outdoor clothing that can get dirty, closed-toe shoes and a hat; dress for all weather conditions.

Appropriate for

Children age 2-5 years-old accompanied by an adult.

Location

Enter via the CERES Visitors Centre for directions to your homebase - details of which will be emailed to you ahead of your visit.

Please note: Any dogs attending must be kept on a leash at all times.

For further questions please call (03) 9389 0144 or email studentprograms@ceres.org.au

Contact the host of Nature Playgroup @ CERES Brunswick East - Mondays Term 1 2025