The wonders of nature coming alive through play, exploration and discovery.

Tuesdays 9.30 - 11.00 in Shoalhaven Heads

Bush Play is an immersive outdoor experience tailored for children and their adult where the wonders of nature come alive through play, exploration, and imagination. Led by qualified and experienced educators, our program is designed to foster a deep connection with the natural world while providing ample opportunities for growth, creativity, and social interaction.

Child-led play is at the heart of our philosophy. Children are encouraged to follow their interests, explore their surroundings, and engage in self-directed activities that spark creativity and problem-solving skills. Our 1.5hr program follows a gentle rhythm, allowing children to balance active play with moments of rest and reflection. With small group sizes, children have the opportunity to form meaningful connections with their peers and mentors, fostering a sense of community and belonging.

Nestled within the beauty of bushland, Bush Play offers a rich tapestry of activities that engage children's senses and ignite their curiosity. Guided nature walks lead our young adventurers underneath the gumtrees, where they uncover the secrets of native flora and fauna, observe insects, and delight in the magic of the outdoors.

Music and movement are integral to the Bush Play experience, as children sing songs and dance throughout the rhythm of the day. These activities not only encourage physical activity but also promote a sense of connection and belonging within the group. In the spirit of bushcraft, children learn valuable skills such as building shelters and crafting using natural materials. These hands-on activities not only teach practical skills but also instil a sense of resourcefulness and respect for the environment.

At our bushcamp, children find a sanctuary where they can unwind, engage in quiet activities, or unleash their creativity in our craft space filled with wooden toys and natural materials. With plenty of open play areas, children have the freedom to run, jump, and explore to their heart's content, while nearby creek paddling offers a refreshing escape on hot days.

At Bush Play, we believe that every child deserves the chance to experience the magic of nature, and we invite you to join us on a journey of exploration, discovery, and adventure in the great outdoors. Our morning session is perfect for families with young children or older kids who enjoy having a familiar adult nearby. There is a range of developmentally appropriate activities on offer.

SEASONAL CYCLES

We operate in rhythm with the local seasons following Traditional D'harawal knowledge of this landscape. By exploring wild spaces together over 5wk cycles, we form a community that supports and nurtures each other. By committing to this time, you are offering your child the chance to develop deep relationship with children, adults and Country. Our 5wk cycle enables us to build on inquiry, lean into collaboration and notice changes over time.

If you'd like, book a 'come + see' session before joining our learning community.

INVESTMENT
$34 per session when registering for 5wk seasonal cycle.

Our group sizes are intentionally small to facilitate high quality social interactions and to enable risky, adventurous play.

CO-FUNDED SPACES DISCOUNT

Our community contributes to co-funded spaces to ensure that finances are less of a barrier for children accessing quality nature play experiences. Each participant contributes $5 towards co-funding 10% of spaces in our programs. The remainder is covered by us and your family. This is an expression of our community's commitment to equity, belonging and social justice.

Families who are eligible for co-funded spaces include those identifying as Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander, holding low-income health care or disability pension cards, have refugee status, or are offering statutory out-of-home care to participating children. Evidence of eligibility may be requested to confirm the co-funded position after registration. It enables, roughly, a 50% reduction in fees. Spaces are claimed quickly.. you can see if any are available on our registration page.