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Cire connects with nature through Bush Kinder program expansion
Freya Lucas
Apr 30, 2024
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Cire Early Learning has been offering a Bush Kinder program at its Yarra Junction Centre for over two decades, providing opportunities for children to explore, learn and grow.
Based on the success of the Yarra Junction Centre program, Cire will expand this program to Chirnside Park, Mt Evelyn, and Pakenham (Hollins) locations, ensuring all families can benefit.“We’re excited to bring the wonders of nature to more children across all our centres. Especially in suburban areas where these opportunities may be limited,” Diletta Lanciana, Executive Manager, Cire Early Learning said.
Benefits of Bush Kinder
Research has shown that spending time outdoors has numerous benefits for children’s development. From boosting physical health and motor skills to improving emotional wellbeing, the great outdoors offers endless opportunities for growth.
As well as enjoying nature Bush Kinder programs support children to engage in structured learning activities that align with their developmental needs including:
- Fostering Friendships and Social Skills
- Enhanced Physical Development
- Emotional Wellbeing
- Learning the Ecosystem
- Building School Readiness
“In a world increasingly screen-bound, reconnecting with nature isn’t just a passing fancy; it’s a responsibility we owe to future generations,” a spokesperson for Cire Early Learning said.
“Our commitment to nature isn’t an add-on activity—it’s at the core of our philosophy and practice through our renowned Bush Kinder program.”
“The outdoors is unpredictable, and that’s the point. Every unplanned event, from a drizzle of rain to discovering a snail, is an opportunity to build resilience. We don’t shield children from nature; we help them learn to bask in its beauty by respecting their surroundings and adapting to its changes.”
Bush Kinder programs are supported at some of Cire’s services through the provision of $6,000 grants from the Department of Education Victoria for some of the services in its networks.Learn more about the grants here. Information about Cire is available on its website.
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