Exploring Nature, Building Resilience: Why Bush Kinder is the Best Start for Your Child
Imagine a classroom without walls, where the sky is the ceiling, trees are the pillars, and every stick, bug, and log is a tool for learning. This is Bush Kinder—a program that’s transforming early childhood education by connecting children with the natural world.
Cranbourne North and Craigieburn YMCA Early Learning Centres are leading the charge, offering outdoor learning experiences that go beyond the classroom. And the results? Happier kids, stronger connections to nature, and skills that last a lifetime.
What is Bush Kinder?
Bush Kinder is a play-based, outdoor education program held in natural settings like parks or bushlands. Children engage in unstructured, child-led activities, encouraging exploration, creativity, and discovery. From observing ants carrying food to building stick teepees, the program inspires curiosity while building teamwork, problem-solving, and resilience.
“Children return from Bush Kinder calmer, more curious, and brimming with excitement about their discoveries,” says Nalissa Caddy – Centre Manager. “These moments—simple as they seem—lay the foundation for lifelong skills.”
At Cranbourne North, where a nature and wellbeing program has been running for two years, educators have witnessed remarkable changes. Children are more connected to the environment, show greater respect for sustainability, and thrive emotionally and socially. Building on this success, the team secured a government Bush Kinder grant, enabling them to take the program further with excursions to places like the Cranbourne Royal Botanic Gardens.
“Seeing the children interact with the Park Ranger and explore the gardens was incredible,” an educator shared. “These hands-on experiences deepen their understanding of ecosystems and sustainability, which they take back to their homes and communities.”
At Craigieburn, families are embracing the program, with parents reporting how much their children love the weekly sessions. One mum described how her son eagerly shares stories about building “campfires” and observing insects—a testament to how nature sparks creativity and wonder.
Bush Kinder isn’t just for kinder-aged children, either. Even nursery and toddler groups are reaping the rewards of time spent outdoors, exploring nature and developing foundational skills.
This year, YMCA aims to introduce Bush Kinder to all its Early Learning Centres, giving more children the chance to benefit from this fun and exciting program. Educators are also exploring ways to make regular visits to nature reserves like the Cranbourne Botanic Gardens part of the program.
“It’s about embedding these experiences into their lives so the next generation grows up with a deep connection to the environment,” Nalissa explains. “Bush Kinder helps build resilient, curious, and mindful kids—qualities we need in tomorrow’s leaders.”
For parents, the proof is in the smiles, the stories, and the newfound love of nature their children bring home. As one mum summed it up: “It’s the best start we could ask for.”
Check out your local YMCA ELC to find out more.
