Nature play at the heart of QCCS’ curriculum as screen time rises among young children

As digital engagement continues to grow among young children, one of Queensland’s most awarded early childhood education and care (ECEC) providers marked International Day of Play on 11 June by celebrating its longstanding commitment to nature-based learning.

Queensland Childcare Services (QCCS), which operates 24 centres across South East Queensland, has embedded nature play into its curriculum for more than 30 years. With regular bush, beach, and farm excursions, the provider sees outdoor learning as a vital part of its educational philosophy.

QCCS General Manager Laura Faalili said that the program delivers wide-ranging benefits for both children and educators.

“Playing in nature whether it’s at the beach, in the bush, or on a farm encourages children to take appropriate risks, explore, use their imaginations, and develop key capabilities like self-regulation and environmental awareness,” Ms Faalili said.

Research published in the Journal of Exercise Science & Fitness documents that only 28 per cent of Australian preschoolers meet the national guideline of less than one hour of sedentary screen time per day. In contrast, the QCCS model centres around movement, connection, and exploration.

“At our nature play bush kindy, we’ve seen a powerful shift in wellbeing for both educators and children,” Ms Faalili said.

“What began as an outdoor learning initiative has evolved into something transformational. Educators now seek time in nature not just to teach, but to recharge. Their passion is reignited, and they guide children through calm, uninterrupted play that fosters creativity, resilience and confidence.”

According to Ms Faalili, children are thriving as a result of the model: grounded, curious, and deeply connected to the natural world.

“This shared experience brings new energy and purpose to our community. We are more than an early learning program; we’re nurturing lifelong skills and shaping the next generation through the power of nature,” she said.

While appropriate risk-taking is encouraged, Ms Faalili stressed that safety remains paramount during off-site activities.

“Safety is central to the success of our beach, bush, and farm kindy programs. Educators are trained in risk assessment and outdoor safety, and we actively empower children to be responsible explorers,” she said.

“Our teams are deeply invested in professional development, and their role in supporting children to become courageous, capable, and connected learners is invaluable.”

With weekly opportunities for children to engage with nature whether splashing in the sea, learning about agriculture on local farms, or exploring the bush, QCCS continues to model how outdoor learning can offer powerful developmental and wellbeing benefits in early childhood settings.

Learn more about QCCS here.