Little Village Early Learning has created new nature play experiences for its little learners, establishing a Bush Kindy program at its Buderim centre on the Sunshine Coast.
“The children and the educators at the centre all contributed to the idea,” said Centre Owner Leonie Macleod. “The children wanted a Ninja gym, the educators wanted a yarning circle. And we wanted a place that created a connection with nature. Together we have developed a Bush Kindy environment and outdoor learning program we are really proud of.”
“We heard concerns from local schools that some children were starting formal education lacking in upper body and core strength, which are necessary for sitting at a desk or even holding a pencil,” Leonie continued, “so, we included gym pieces and climbing ropes in the Bush Kindy to develop that upper body strength.”
A daily bush kindy program
Available to all children at the Centre from three years old, Little Village holds Bush Kindy sessions every day.
“The children love to learn about the environment, see the wildlife that has visited, and to build confidence in a more challenging environment,” said Leonie. “Children have recently started whittling with knives, learning to tie ropes and hope to learn fire making later in the year.”
Already incredibly popular with families, the centre plans to continue developing the program. “We’ve had some fantastic feedback from parents so far!” Leonie said. “We’ll continue to develop our educators through training in nature play and outdoor learning. ”
As well as the Bush Kindy, Little Village Early Learning has been busy developing other enrichment programs. “We also provide music and movement classes, Ella Japanese and a range of cultural and educational incursions and excursions.”
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