New bush kinders for nature-loving children

NEW funding from the State Government will help establish 150 more bush kinders around the state via one-off $6000 grants to help kindergartens buy the items and equipment they need to run the initiative.

The kinders are held in parks, bushland and beaches, and are intended to give children the opportunity to explore and develop curiosities through activities such as climbing trees, playing with natural materials and watching wildlife.

The Government is funnelling $3.6 million over four years to establish the program in up to 600 kinder services across Victoria.

This will build on findings that regular outdoor play delivers significant benefits for a child’s learning and development, including their physical and mental health.

Children who experience bush kinders are said to develop greater confidence and capabilities while learning how to recognise and manage risks in new environments.

They’re also thought to gain a deeper understanding of science, technology, engineering and mathematics concepts in a hands-on way.

“We all want the best for our kids and teaching them about the great outdoors is good for their wellbeing, physical development and connection to nature,” Minister for Children Lizzie Blandthorn said.

“Kids have so much to learn from regular bush, beach and park-based kinder programs, where each visit offers new opportunities to learn about and discover our great outdoors.”

This round of funding will allow programs to be established at 43 regional kindergartens and 107 metropolitan kindergartens across 53 local government areas.

For further information, visit the Victorian Government website.