🌿❄️ Discover Winter Magic with a Nature Play Session this July! 🧤🌲

Facilitated by the National Arboretum's outdoor educators and proudly supported by the Friends of the Arboretum. 

Suitable for children aged 18 months to 5 years and their carers. Younger siblings are most welcome to join in. Book now to ensure your spot!

Please note: The equipment and activities are specifically designed for children aged 5 and under. Older children are not accommodated for this session. 

🌿 Nature play offers a unique and immersive approach to childhood development, fostering a deep connection between children and the natural world. Our aim is to nurture a sense of wonder, guide without imposing, create space for possibilities, and facilitate safe exploration and learning in the natural world. 

At the National Arboretum’s nature play, we believe in sowing the seeds 🌱 of a deep and lasting connection with the natural🌳environment. Nature play is designed to be an explorative journey, providing a foundation for children to become confident, caring, and environmentally conscious individuals. Join us in this delightful adventure, and let your child discover the magic of the outdoors through play.

Studies show that when children interact with natural materials and outdoor environments, they become calmer, more focused 🎯, and develop a keen sensory awareness. Nature play is a highly regarded way of learning through hands-on experiences, nurturing physical activity, enhancing motor skills 🤸, and fostering social and emotional development. Children can develop skills at their own pace, build physical and emotional confidence, and unleash their creativity through imaginative play 🎨. Whether it's experimenting with earth and water, creating with sticks and stones, or engaging in role-play, children gain valuable life skills that go beyond four walls 🏕️.

TICKETS

• Main child ticket 18 months – 5 years: $15
• Under 18 months: Free with a main ticket
• Adults: Free
• Secondary child tickets 18 months – 5 years: $5 each
  Up to 2 additional child tickets can be booked within the same session after purchasing a main ticket. We encourage booking with friends to access the '3 for $25' offer.
  Carers with children under 18 months can still book and attend but must have at least one main ticket.

WHAT TO BRING & WHAT TO WEAR

• A change of clothes for messy play
• Weather-appropriate clothing e.g. jumpers, raincoats.
• Water for yourself and all accompanying children
• Light refreshments/snacks
• A picnic blanket (optional – we will also provide some)

IMPORTANT TO KNOW

• Ensure you have a ticket before arriving.
• This is an outdoor event and will run in all weather conditions. In the case of rain or extremely windy weather, all ticket holders will receive an email directing them to the Margaret Whitlam Pavilion as the alternate event location.
• Nearest toilets are at the Himalayan Cedar Forest or the National Arboretum Village Centre – please come prepared.

We look forward to seeing you in the Forest!🌳 🌳 🌳 🌳 🌳 🌳 🌳 🌳 🌳 🌳 🌳 🌳