NATURE PLAY GROUP - QUIET TIME

Welcome to Nature Playgroup - Quiet Time, a nurturing and gentle program designed for young children who thrive in calm, peaceful settings. This unique playgroup offers an introduction to nature through storytelling, puppetry, and songs, combined with simple and engaging nature play activities by beautiful Herdsman Lake.

Why is nature play important?

The number of proven benefits of nature play and open-ended outdoor play for children is extensive; it fosters physical, cognitive and socio-emotional development, improves well-being and resilience, enhances gross motor skills, problem-solving and critical thinking ability, and strengthens optics, coordination and balance. Learning outdoors can also spark curiosity, lead to new knowledge and a foster a deep appreciation of the environment and the natural world, which in turn grows into a lifelong stewardship.

The new Nature Playgroup program features many of the favourite aspects of the Thursday playgroup, including storytelling, musical elements, puppet shows and nature-play activities. However, the aim of this playgroup is to create a more serene and inclusive atmosphere through the smaller group size, and by focussing on engaging mat time and ‘low-mess, low-stress’ free play activities.

Program Highlights

Story Time: Immerse your child in the magic of nature-themed stories that spark imagination and curiosity.

Puppet Shows: Delight in enchanting puppet performances that bring tales to life,
fostering creativity and engagement.

Gentle Songs: Sing along to soft, playful songs that promote relaxation and connection with the environment.

Quiet Nature Play: Participate in low-mess activities that encourage exploration and sensory experiences without overwhelming stimulation.

Coffee Window & Discovery Centre: We encourage families to extend their morning by making use of the
on-site coffee window, interactive centre and early learning playrooms.

Skilled Educators: The program will be run by our qualified teachers, including Leigh, Sarah, Temily and Chantelle.

Class Structure

Each session lasts for 60 minutes, providing a perfect balance of structured activities and free play in a tranquil atmosphere. With smaller class sizes and capped numbers, children can enjoy personalized attention and build meaningful connections with their parents, carers and peers in a supportive environment. The program is best suited to children aged 2 to 5 years; however everyone is welcome.

What To Bring & Arrival Procedures

Please wear sun-safe clothing, a hat and covered shoes or gumboots. We also encourage you to bring a water bottle and light morning tea for your child. When arriving at playgroup, please check in with reception, located on the lake side of the building.

Benefits

Ideal for children who prefer smaller groups and quieter moments

Encourages social interaction and emotional development in a calming setting

Promotes a love for nature through gentle engagement and exploration

PRICING

Join us for just $15 per session or purchase a 9-week term pass for $115, offering a 15% overall discount and guaranteed spot every week, and give your child the gift of peaceful play and discovery in nature. Parents, carers and accompanying siblings under two years are free of charge, and playgroup ticket/s also include access to the Discovery Centre.

SUPERVISION

As the centre is in a natural environment and presents water safety hazards, please note that a parent or carer MUST be present at all times during the session. Supervision is key to providing your child with a safe and fun learning environment, and is a wonderful opportunity to spend quality time!

FOOD & DRINK

You are very welcome to pack a morning tea and enjoy a picnic on the grassy lawns before, during or after playgroup. Our on-site coffee window, Twitchers, is open from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM for coffee, babyccinos and light snacks.

HEALTH & SAFETY

Please stay home if you or your child are feeling unwell.

Be mindful of allergies when packing your child's lunchbox.

If you have any additional questions about playgroup, please contact Leigh at leigh@wagouldleague.com.au.

Come and experience the joy of Nature Playgroup - Quiet Time, where gentle exploration and creativity come together in a serene environment.

Nature Play Groups: Events List