Chermside kindy children swapped screens for sand at a beach kindy cricket day in Brighton, combining outdoor play, water safety lessons and nature-based learning.
Chermside kindy children have swapped screens for sand, sunshine and cricket bats, taking part in a fun-filled Beach Big Bash that also delivered important water safety lessons.
Children from Queensland Childcare Services (QCCS) at The Prince Charles Hospital Early Education Centre headed to Decker Park Beach in Brighton as part of their signature beach kindy program, which encourages outdoor learning through nature play.
More than 30 children enjoyed a morning of hotly contested beach cricket, outdoor games and hands-on water safety activities, all designed to promote active play, reduce screen time and build confidence in outdoor environments.
The Chermside Beach Kindy Program
The Chermside kindy program is part of QCCS’ broader Nature Play curriculum, which also runs fortnightly at centres in Morayfield and Crestmead.
QCCS General Manager Laura Faalili said the program supports both physical and mental wellbeing in young children.
“Supporting the health and wellbeing of kindy children is a key focus of our curriculum at The Prince Charles Hospital Early Education Centre,” Ms Faalili said.
“As the weather warms up, our nature play programs offer rich opportunities for curiosity, risk intelligence and problem-solving. Children are encouraged to challenge themselves, explore new environments and develop confidence and resilience through real-world experiences.”
Swapping screen time for seaweed at the Chermside beach kindy
Ms Faalili said nature-based programs, such as beach kindy, have been shown to support cognitive, social, and emotional development while fostering creativity and resilience.
“Experiencing new surroundings and hands-on learning opportunities provides enormous benefits for both children and educators,” she said.
“Our Nature Play and Healthy Bodies programs encourage children to explore beyond screens, showing families that summer fun is about real-world adventure, outdoor learning and building confidence and connection.”
Research published in the International Journal of Early Childhood Environmental Education recommends children spend at least 180 minutes a day engaged in physical activity, including 60 minutes of energetic play.
“We often take for granted just how valuable time outdoors can be,” Ms Faalili said.
“Our Nature Play program allows children to continue learning while enjoying all the benefits that come from meaningful time spent outside.”
QCCS’ Nature Play activities are intentionally designed to spark discussion, promote healthy physical practices and expose children to a range of environments, including bushland, farmland, local roads and beaches.
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