‘The Hearth’ connects the child’s heart to the earth. It is a place of comfort and connection, a feeling of being home.
what we believe
what we believe
At Hearth Nature Play we provide a beautiful private wild bush setting where children can experience nature through play and exploration.
Play is the highest form of learning for young children. We value play that is self-directed, imaginative and creative, particularly using natural materials.
Nature play is essential for children’s physical and emotional growth. The natural terrain requires children to explore with all their senses and to use their bodies freely whilst developing core strength essential for future learning.
We aim to reduce consumption of new materials for children’s play but instead cherish the old. We include the use of natural or repurposed materials and traditional home and family keepsakes as our equipment.
Hearth Nature Play
Hearth Nature Play is led by Ros Molyneux.
With over 30 year’s experience teaching preschool children, Ros brings a deep knowledge of and passion for the rights of children and Country. She holds a Masters of Education, a Diploma of Children’s Yoga Teaching and a wealth of experience in teaching and leadership in both traditional school settings and bush kinder.
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First Nations Culture
We share an Acknowledgement of Country and children’s connection to Country is promoted through learning about plants, animals and traditional stories.
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Nature Play
Open ended play with branches, fallen logs, leaves, mud, feathers and sticks. Imagination and creativity flourish through natural cubby building and small world play.
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Bush Rambles
We follow secret paths through the bush, looking for signs of plant, animal and birdlife. Stamina, balance and coordination are promoted and developed.
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Creative Play
Opportunities for creative expression through nature sculptures, natural clay, nature mandalas, weaving, ephemeral art and much more.
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Music and Yoga
The expressive arts are wonderful vehicles for learning about nature. We sing about Mother Earth, and move our bodies imaginatively like bush creatures.
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Gathering Circles
Gathering circles are held at all sessions, to acknowledge Country and connect to each other. Our storytelling enhances children’s ecological understanding.
