EQUIPPED with their backpacks and big smiles, Shine Bright Woorinen South Kindergarten children headed bush on Tuesday for a fun-filled day of bush kinder.
The bush kinder program allows the children to connect with nature and explore their natural surroundings in sessions throughout terms 2 and 3.
Educational leader Alison Boyd-Law said the benefits of bush kinder were widespread.
“There’s been a lot of research into the benefits and values of playing with, and in nature,” Ms Boyd-Law said.
“It allows the children to use their imagination and think outside the square.”
Exploration and discovery were high on the agenda as the Woorinen South Bushland Reserve was transformed, with the children making the most of their nature-based play time.
Th children built shelters and cubbies, sticks became fishing rods and rocks became legal tender, while other activities included a nature hunt, bush craft and bush yoga.
“Families are very supportive of the bush kinder program and are welcome to attend,” Ms Boyd-Law said.
The bush kinder initiative encourages children to be independent, while forming connections with the land.
Throughout the program, children also learn about sustainability and caring for the environment.
Paying respect to the region’s diverse Aboriginal culture and history is also an important part of the program.
