Nature Playgroup

Nature Playgroup at Perth City Farm

Nature Playgroup runs every Saturday morning during the school term from 9-10am. It’s a great chance for little ones and their guardians to engage with nature, get creative and make new friends. We’re able to offer Nature Playgroup weekly thanks in part to support from the Rotary Club of Subiaco.

This family nature playgroup is for children aged between 2 and 5 years old and an accompanying adult. Facilitated by Erin Pedretti, a qualified children’s educator who plans and delivers each session with unique, seasonally-inspired activities. The guardians stay and participate in the session so that everyone gets to share in the experience of connecting with nature.

Connecting with nature through play

In our technology-rich world, intentional nature play for children has become really important. Nature play gets children active and stimulates thinking about the real world, while simultaneously and innately building a connection and appreciation of natural environments. It’s extremely beneficial for children’s health, and the natural environments.

Being outside and exploring nature has shown to significantly benefit a child’s development, including their physical, social, cognitive and emotional wellbeing. Open-ended play encourages children to use their imagination and creativity. Outdoor play stimulates questions and enquiries leading to wonderful learning opportunities about science, nature and conservation.  

Happier, healthier children

Research shows that being in natural environments can help significantly improve a child’s ability in relation to problem solving, concentration, resilience, communication, independence and self-confidence. Lastly, there are obvious health benefits to playing outdoors, including increased physical activity, improved respiratory health, maintaining good vision, and advanced gross and fine motor skills. In summary, nature play provides immeasurable positive outcomes for happier, healthier and brighter kids. 

A lasting impact

Our Nature Playgroup and kids’ workshops are a key part of our sustainability education program at Perth City Farm. They have been developed using our science-based methodology and are designed to deliver on our target impact.