Stories & Articles

Bush Kinder

Vanessa de Largie | Topic Media | July 31, 2014

No toys, no art supplies – just the brushstrokes and fun provided by nature.

Westgarth Kindergarten’s Bush Kinder is the first of its kind in Australia. A forest kindergarten – immersed in natural delights. Children are encouraged to play, learn and explore out in the natural environment, whatever the weather forecast.

Forest Schooling was first developed in 1927 in Wisconsin. In the early 1950’s the idea was introduced in Sweden, Wales and other European countries with great success.

The main aim of Forest Schooling is to encourage spatial awareness, motor skill development, exploration with all the senses and empowering children in a natural environment.

Westgarth Kindergarten’s bush kinder takes place in the Darebin Parklands.

In an era awash with social media and video games, this seems like the natural and beautiful choice for any child, to connect with themselves and the natural world at large.

For more information about bush kinder for children aged 4 and 3. Please email director@wgkg.vic.edu.au