Embedded Nature Play and Bush Kindy

At Little Apple Tree we don’t need to bus children off site for bush kindy. We embed nature play and the bush kindy experience into children’s daily activities in our beautiful, natural outdoor play space, which is more than double the size required for our boutique centre.

By embedding nature play into daily learning experiences, children develop critical life skills while fostering a deeper connection to the natural world.

By embedding nature play into daily learning, children experience holistic growth while forming meaningful connections with the environment. Our approach enriches children’s development and lays the foundation for a lifelong appreciation of nature and well-being.

Some of the benefits associated with nature play in early learning are:

1. Physical 

  • Encourages active movement, improving gross and fine motor skills

  • Enhances coordination, balance, and strength through outdoor exploration

  • Boosts immune system health through exposure to fresh air and natural elements

2. Cognitive and Academic 

  • Promotes problem-solving skills through unstructured play in natural settings

  • Enhances creativity and imagination by using natural materials for play

  • Supports early STEM learning (science, technology, engineering, math) through

    real-world experiences

3. Social and Emotional Development

  • Fosters collaboration and teamwork as children engage in group activities

  • Develops resilience and confidence through risk-taking in a safe, natural environment

  • Encourages calmness and stress reduction, lowering anxiety levels

4. Environmental Awareness and Connection

  • Instils a sense of responsibility for nature and sustainability

  • Encourages curiosity and respect for the natural world

  • Builds lifelong eco-conscious habits

5. Language and Communication Skills

  • Expands vocabulary as children describe natural discoveries

  • Supports storytelling and expressive skills through nature-based discussions

  • Enhances listening and observation skills

A young child wearing a colorful dinosaur hat and a dinosaur-themed shirt stands in a garden area with wooden planters and plants. It is a sunny day, and orange flowers are scattered on the ground.
Child hanging upside down on a playground bar with wood chips on the ground and a wooden structure nearby.
A child holding a leaf with earthworms on it in an outdoor setting.
Children playing on a wooden playground with a slide under trees, supervised by an adult woman in a hat and sunglasses.