Children's Adventures in the Outdoor Classroom
Observing Little Creatures
Children from Gorton House Mulla Mulla visited the outdoor classroom space and were curious about the cricket they discovered in a thin hole in the ground, and that larvae were coming out of the hole. The children enjoyed observing these creatures in their natural environment.
Rainy Day Fun
On a visit to the outdoor classroom space during wet weather the children from Johnson House Banksia room danced, stomped and absolutely delighted in getting as wet as they possibly could. The joy on their faces as water dripped from every inch of them was priceless!
Freeing Nature
A collaborative project has been unfolding across several rooms, as children work to remove patches of old artificial turf and reveal the soil and fresh grass underneath. Children from the Banksia, Waratah, and Kurrajong rooms have named the initiative “freeing nature.” Their dedication to this hands-on project has been remarkable—demonstrating teamwork, problem-solving, persistence, and care for the environment.
Adventure Play
An educator shared her reflections on watching toddlers navigate the large tree near reception. Children who were once tentative are now confidently climbing in and out, instinctively adjusting their movements to manage trickier areas. These moments of adventurous play support risk assessment, independence, and body awareness in a natural and meaningful context.
Going Barefoot
One morning, children chose to explore the outdoor space barefoot. Educators noticed the children slow down and become more mindful. They became aware of every step, noticing the changes in temperature and texture beneath their feet. Experiences like this deepen children’s connection to the environment.
Meeting More Friends
Children have observed many different creatures in the outdoor classroom space, including leeches, slaters, worms, millipedes, and Witchetty grubs. A delicate spider web drew particular attention, as children respectfully walked around it, watching the spider scurry away into the tree canopy. There were also several requests that we check on the two St Andrew’s Cross spiders who the children have been watching for many weeks as they grow bigger and bigger.
Conclusion
Connecting with and playing in natural spaces is at the heart of our mission to embed nature pedagogy in our programs. These experiences promote resilience, collaboration, curiosity, and a deep sense of care for the natural world. As we continue to shape and develop our outdoor classroom, we are guided by the children’s questions, interests, and the joy they bring to every visit.
Contact Us
If you have any questions or would like more information, please email us at childrensservices@theinfantshome.org.au
