Playgroup
Nature Playgroup on the Farm
Our playgroup sessions, set on a private 10-acre property, are designed to engage young children with the natural world. These unique sessions combine more traditional playgroup elements with the physical and motor challenges of a kindergym, rich sensory experiences enhanced by our beautiful outdoor learning environment, and the opportunity to meet and learn about the farm friends and native wildlife we share our environment with. We believe the best way to develop healthy roots and a foundation for your child’s lifelong learning and growth is through child-led play in nature. Each week we provide a range of play-based provocations designed to inspire children’s curiosity and creativity; strengthen growing bodies and minds; and foster health, happiness, and resilience. Our sessions also provide an opportunity for caregivers to relax and unwind in this tranquil setting and to connect with your little ones and community.
2025 Term 1 Enrolments Now Open
What is Enchanted Childhoods?
Enchanted Childhoods is more than just a program—it’s a space where children:
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Discover: Learn about the world around us and the wonders of nature through hands-on exploration.
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Grow: Building confidence, problem-solving skills, and independence.
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Connect: Build social skills and nurture a love for animals and the environment.
What We Offer
Our Nature Playgroup provides a rich and engaging experience for children aged 1 to 5. Our sessions are child-led and have a different theme each week, meaning every day is different, and children are encouraged to follow their interests and instincts as they:
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Strengthen their gross and fine motor skills by balancing on logs, climbing trees, navigating uneven terrain, exploring across the vast play space, carrying heavy objects, making potions, and experimenting with clay and play dough.
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Build healthy sensory systems through digging and splashing in the mud, getting messy and dirty, lifting and carrying objects, spinning and swinging, and opportunities to explore different scents and textures.
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Foster creativity through playing with natural loose parts, experimenting with mark making and art through different mediums, and imaginative play
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Strengthen their problem-solving skills and understanding of cause and effect through engaging in hands-on learning about the world around them
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Meet our farm friends, sing songs, and practice mindfulness in nature.
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Explore seasonal changes, native plants, and wildlife.
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Benefit from the science which shows time in nature and a sense of connection with the natural world supports physical and psychological well-being.
Every moment is an opportunity to build confidence, curiosity, and care for the world around them.
Why Choose Enchanted Childhoods?
Parents and Caregivers love our playgroup sessions because they:
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Support Development: From gross motor skills to emotional regulation, nature play lays the foundation for lifelong learning.
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Encourage Risk-Taking: With carefully managed “adventurous play,” children build resilience and learn to assess and navigate challenges.
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Aligns with Values: Our program is aligned with the Early Years Learning Framework, integrating its principles and valuing of play-based learning for children into our nature-based approach.
Nature Playgroup FAQs
Here are answers to some common questions about our Playgroup program. If you have any other queries, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us directly!
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What is Wild Hearts?Wild Hearts is a nature-based program where children explore, play, and learn in the great outdoors. Through unstructured play, adventure and exploration, and creative expression, children build resilience, confidence, and a love for nature.
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What age group is Wild Hearts for?Wild Hearts is designed for children aged 4 to 7.
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What happens during a typical session?Each session includes time for free exploration, guided provocations, creative play, and reflection. Activities are child-led and influenced by the environment, ensuring every day is unique.
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Is Wild Hearts aligned with educational standards?Yes, our program is aligned with the Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF), ensuring a balance of play-based learning with intentional teaching, an emergent curriculum informed by children’s interests and curiosities, and developmentally appropriate practices.
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What should my child wear?Children should wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing that you don’t mind getting muddy or wet!
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What should my child bring?- A backpack with a full water bottle - A packed lunch and snacks - Weather-appropriate extras (raincoat, hat, sunscreen, etc.) - At least one spare change of clothes (including socks and underwear)
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What if the weather is bad?We embrace all weather conditions! Rain, mud, and puddles are part of the fun. If there are extreme weather conditions, such as high winds or severe storms, a modified program will be delivered making use of our barn learning space. Sessions will only be cancelled if there is a catastrophic fire danger rating forecast by BOM on the Sunday evening for the following day.
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Where is Wild Hearts located?We meet at 352 Pennys Hill Road, The Range in our Enchanted Childhoods’ barn.
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What are the session times?Our sessions run from 9am to 2:45pm.
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What are the staff-to-child ratios?We maintain a low educator-to-child ratio to ensure safety and quality interactions. The ratio is 1:6.
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How is risky play managed?We encourage “risky” or adventurous play as an essential part of child development. Educators supervise and guide children to assess and manage risks and build confidence while maintaining a safe environment.
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What if my child gets hurt?Our educators are trained in first aid and will respond immediately to any injuries. Parents will be notified of any incidents, and appropriate care will be provided.
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Can children with additional needs participate?Absolutely! We welcome children of all abilities and are happy to discuss any additional support your child may require.
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How do I enrol my child?You can enrol through our website or contact us directly at info@enchanted.childhoods.com.au
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What is the cost of the program?Our fees are $95/day, to be paid in three instalments throughout the term.
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What is your cancellation policy?Bookings are made on a per term basis. We ask families to please provide a minimum of 4 weeks notice if you don’t wish to rebook for the subsequent term so this place can be offered to another family.
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Can I visit before enrolling?If you would like to visit us or learn more, please email the team at info@enchanted.childhoods.com.au We also offer weekly Playgroup sessions which are a great opportunity for younger explorers to build their confidence in our environment and for families to learn more about our team of educators and philosophy.
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How will I know what my child is doing each week?We share weekly updates, including key themes and photos, through our Family Hub. Additionally, your child’s progress and memorable moments are captured in their personal learning portfolio.
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Will my child’s photos be shared publicly?We respect your preferences for photo permissions. Please let us know if you’d like your child’s images excluded from social media or other public platforms.
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What are the benefits of nature play?Nature play fosters creativity, problem-solving, emotional resilience, and physical health. It also encourages a sense of wonder and a deeper connection to the natural world.
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Can I stay during the sessions?While Wild Hearts is designed to encourage independence, we understand that some children may benefit from a gradual transition. Please discuss your child’s needs with us.
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Do you run during school holidays?Yes, we offer school holiday programs. You can read more about them here.