KINDERGARTEN children from Arthur Mawson Kinder enjoyed some much-deserved learning and play time in nature last week, with a visit to Australian Botanic Gardens Shepparton as part of a ‘Bush Kinder’ program.
Child-led nature-play and curiosity are at the heart of bush kinder programs. They aim to connect children with nature in an outdoor setting, allowing the opportunity to explore independently and participate in caring for our environment mindfully.
Kindergarten and pre-kindergarten leader of early years services, Sue McLean, is thrilled these sessions are now able to go ahead.
“We are really excited about our Bush Kinder program and really glad that we have been able to go out to Bush Kinder once a week in November,” Ms Mclean said.
“Next year, we hope to participate in Bush Kinder once a week in terms two and three so that the children have more time to benefit from the experience. Bush Kinder is an extension to our Kindergarten Program where we continue to look out for ourselves, others and the environment.”
There are a multitude of benefits to children from engaging in the program, including the support and development of fine and gross motor skills, experiencing of diverse environments and conditions, navigating new spaces and resources and so much more.
During these sessions, the children have enjoyed listening to a story written by local Indigenous woman Irene Thomas, about how the Murray River was made in Aboriginal tradition.
If you have not registered your child for three or four year old kindergarten for 2022, please visit https://greatershepparton.com.au/community/childrens-services/kindergarten for further information.
