CHILDREN of the Redland City community can now play outdoors with limited restrictions while receiving preschool education, with the launch of Alexandra Hills Early Education's Bush Kindy program.
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Alexandra Hills Early Education owner and teacher, Heather Hodgetts, said the Bush Kindy program for children aged three years and over was a dream come true for the centre - she hoped the new initiative would give local children the opportunity to reconnect with nature.
"Research shows children who spend more time outdoors in nature are happier, stronger, smarter and more social,” she said.
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“Bush Kindy is a global concept which has seen great success in children both internationally and now nationally here in Australia, so we are thrilled to bring this learning platform to the families of Redland City.”
Children are encouraged to climb, pick up sticks, explore, discover, run, observe, investigate and respect the animals and insects found in their natural habitat.
"We've only had a few sessions so far but already it has been wonderful to observe the children let their imaginations run wild,” Ms Hodgetts said.
“Each week, we observe growth. We see children become more mindful of their surroundings, become more resilient and confident in risky play and see calmer, happier beings explore their natural playground independently and/or with their peers.
“Bush Kindy children experience all the benefits of nature-based play environments, including a stronger immune system, improved language and collaboration skills, lower risk of bullying and are more likely to respect and value the environment.”
Given the number of advantages Bush Kindy offers, Alexandra Hills Early Education has doubled its original class size from once a week to twice a week as it has been inundated with interest.
Children enrolled at Alexandra Hills Early Education can participate in Bush Kindy each Friday morning at council bush land, which is walking-distance from the centre and which is accessible without needing to cross any roads.
