Our Kindergarten program at Little Wildlings Bush Kindy is designed to meet the early years curriculum and standards, whilst maintaining a strong emphasis on nature-based learning and holistic child development.

1. Regulatory Compliance: The first national curriculum framework, Belonging, Being, Becoming: The Early Years Learning Framework for Australia [EYLF] emphasised First Nations’ perspectives, children’s engagement with the outdoors, natural elements and self-directed learning through play and risk-taking (DEEWR, 2009). Furthermore, it advocates for children’s voices and child-directed play with five broad, non-prescriptive learning outcomes for children, (AGDE, 2022).

   • How do we meet the 5 key outcomes of the EYLF:

     1. Children have a strong sense of identity: Through experiences in Bush Kindy, children build a deep connection with the natural world, fostering an understanding of themselves in relation to the environment, their community, and cultural practices.

     2. Children are connected with and contribute to their world: In Bush Kindy, children learn to appreciate and respect the natural environment, developing a sense of responsibility and stewardship for the land. They also engage with Indigenous perspectives and learn about their roles in caring for the earth.

     3. Children have a strong sense of wellbeing: Bush Kindy prioritizes outdoor play and physical activities, promoting children's physical health and wellbeing. Being immersed in nature also supports emotional and social wellbeing, encouraging resilience and self-regulation skills.

     4. Children are confident and involved learners: Through hands-on experiences like exploring creeks, identifying plants, and building bush crafts, Bush Kindy fosters children's curiosity and creativity. They learn to take risks, solve problems, and engage actively in their learning.

     5. Children are effective communicators: In Bush Kindy, children communicate through nature-based activities, storytelling, and interactions with peers and educators. They develop language skills to express ideas and feelings, listen attentively, and respond to others effectively.

2. Nature-Based Learning: Similar to their Pre-Kindy program, the Kindergarten program emphasises learning in natural outdoor environments such as bushlands or forests. This approach allows children to engage with nature firsthand, fostering a deep connection with the natural world.

3. Holistic Development: The program supports the holistic development of children, including physical, social, emotional, and cognitive growth. Activities are designed to promote resilience, problem-solving skills, creativity, and empathy among children.

4. Play-Based Curriculum: Central to the kindergarten program is a play-based curriculum that encourages learning through exploration, hands-on activities, and child-directed play. This approach supports children's natural curiosity and enhances their learning experiences.

5. Qualified Educators: We are qualified early childhood teachers and educators who are passionate about nature-based education. We provide a nurturing environment where children can learn and grow in a safe and supportive setting.

6. Environmental Education: Children in the Kindy program learn about sustainability, conservation, and environmental stewardship. They participate in activities that teach them to respect and care for the natural environment.

7. Parental Engagement: The program values parental involvement, and we have an open-door policy meaning that you are welcome to join us any time, both inside and outside the gate. This fosters a sense of community and shared learning between families and the kindergarten.

8. Community Engagement: Children will be given the opportunity to explore and connect with both the local, and wider community via walks or bus rides to natural spaces.

It is likely, however, that your child will be much more interested in:

• Playing in fresh water creeks

• Going on bush walks and spotting wildlife

• Making bush crafts

• Using hand tools

• or playing in our “mud kitchen”

Rest assured, we wholeheartedly encourage and embrace their interests, guiding their exploration every step of the way!