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

Step into the magic of Nature Play at Joe’s Market Garden in Coburg, where seeds sprout, veggies grow and tiny hands get messy in the soil. Guided by Madison, children will become little farmers as they wander the garden beds, plant seeds, and watch food grow. Each week they’ll meet the “Veggie of the Week,” learn about what’s in season and discover the world of compost. Along the way, they’ll create art from nature objects, investigate insects that help the farm thrive, climb trees, and build a hands-on connection to food, farming, and the natural world around them.

No two weeks are the same — the farm changes with the seasons, and so do the adventures. Each visit brings more confidence, creativity, resilience, and wonder for the land we share.

Psst - Joe's Coffee Cart and Farm gate are back! Sip on a brew or pick up something fresh and seasonal (open 9am–1pm, Fridays).

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

Dates

Every Friday 10 am - 12 pm

Term 4: Fri 17th of October - Fri 12th of December 2025

Cost

$280 for 9 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