Nature Playgroup

“Being outdoors in nature offers unplanned, unknown, unpredictable encounters; these are significant provocations for learning.” – (Adapted from Waters, 2012)

Program details

Age Group
2 – 5 years old (+ a guardian)

CERES, Brunswick East, morning session
Monday mornings 10am – 11.30am
30 January – 27 March 2023
$240 per child for eight-week program
plus $60 for each additional sibling
1.5-hour running time

CERES, Brunswick East, afternoon session
Monday afternoons 12.30pm – 2pm
30 January – 27 March 2023
$240 per child for eight-week program
plus $60 for each additional sibling
1.5-hour running time

CERES, Joe’s Market Garden, Coburg
Tuesday mornings from 10am – 12pm
31 January – 21 March 2023
$264 per child for eight-week program
plus $66 for each additional sibling
Two-hour running time

Playgroup at CERES Brunswick East

Join our experienced early years outdoor educators at CERES in Brunswick East, to discover our local, abundant ecology through nature play. Activities vary with the seasons, and what is relevant to the Merri Creek and CERES. We plant seeds, feed the chickens, make art with natural objects, investigate local insects, climb trees, make damper and fires, sing, and have a good time. Every week the children are rewarded with more confidence, resilience, creativity, and gratitude for the land and people we live with.

Playgroup at CERES Joe's Market Garden

Join our experienced early years outdoor educators, at CERES Joe’s Market Garden in Coburg, to discover our local, abundant ecology through nature play. Activities vary with the seasons, and what is relevant to the Merri Creek and the farm. We plant seeds, harvest weeds, fruits and farmed goods, make art with natural objects, investigate local insects, climb the tractor and trees, make damper and fires, sing, and have a good time. Every week the children are rewarded with more confidence, resilience, creativity, and gratitude for the land and people we live with.

Availability

Monday mornings at CERES Brunswick East during term.

Monday afternoons at CERES Brunswick East during term.

Tuesdays at CERES Joe’s Market Garden, Coburg during term

What you will learn

Nature play and curiosity are at the heart of this program. Our thoughtfully designed learning experience will connect your children with nature, allow them to explore independently, discover the wonders of our natural world and participate in caring for our environment and people.

Things to know

What you will need
An adult to accompany your children.

What to bring
Children should bring a hat, water bottle, and a snack. Consider bringing along a change of clothes as things may get messy.

What to Wear
Outdoor clothing that can get dirty, closed-toe shoes and a hat and dress for all weather conditions.

Testimonials

“Really fantastic day – the kids are still raving about it! They learnt so much in the happy, relaxed and fun atmosphere – created by their amazing teacher :)”

“Loved the experience. Very relaxed. Great to get the children outdoors exploring. Can’t wait for the next one.”

“We had a wonderful term, a great mix of unstructured and structured play! Lauren is a fantastic educator”