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Allan Labor government doubles Bush Kinder grants, supporting 150 more kindergartens for outdoor learning

The Allan Labor government is doubling Bush Kinder grants, funding 150 kindergartens statewide, including Meeniyan Preschool, to support outdoor learning and development through nature-based activities and environmental exploration.

By news@gippsland - 20th December 2024 - Back to News

The Allan Labor Government is helping 150 more kindergartens take kids outdoors to learn in nature with new funding doubling the number of bush kinder grants across the state. Member for Eastern Victoria Tom McIntosh today announced Meeniyan Preschool would receive $6,000 to hold their weekly Bush Kinder session at the Meeniyan Rec Reserve.

Bush Kinder programs, funded with $6,000 grants and $3.6 million, promote children's growth through outdoor play, exploration, and learning

Bush Kinder benefits

Bush kinder is run in parks, bushland and beaches, giving children the opportunity to explore and develop curiosities through activities such as climbing trees, playing with natural materials and watching wildlife.

One-off $6,000 grants help kindergartens buy the items and equipment they need to run programs. The Labor Government is investing $3.6 million over four years to expand bush kinder programs in up to 600 kinder services across Victoria.

The educational program builds on findings that regular outdoor play delivers significant benefits for a child's learning and development, including their physical and mental health and wellbeing. Children who experience bush kinder develop greater confidence and capabilities while learning how to recognise and manage risks in new environments. They also gain a deeper understanding of science, technology, engineering and mathematics concepts in a hands-on way.

Bush Kinder expansion

The Bush Kinder Grants Program funds kindergartens to establish or enhance a bush kinder program in a local natural space. Kindergartens without access to a suitable off-site location can use their grant funding to improve the biodiversity of their existing outdoor environment.

Funding in this round of grants is allowing bush kindergarten programs to be established at 43 regional kindergartens and 107 metropolitan kindergartens across 53 local government areas. Visit Bush Kinder Grants Program website to find out which kinders will be starting a bush kinder program.

Outdoor learning benefits

Minister for Children Lizzie Blandthorn said, "We all want the best for our kids and teaching them about the great outdoors is good for their wellbeing, physical development and connection to nature. Kids have so much to learn from regular bush, beach and park-based kinder programs, where each visit offers new opportunities to learn about and discover our great outdoors."

Member for Eastern Victoria Tom McIntosh said, "Getting kids outside learning in the open air is one of the best things we can do for the wellbeing of the next generation. Bush kinder allows more kids to learn outside, growing in confidence and curiosity."

Meeniyan Preschool Educator Michelle Tumino said, "At Meeniyan Preschool, we believe in the power of nature to nurture creativity, resilience, and a deep connection to our environment. Our weekly Bush Kinder sessions at the Meeniyan Rec Reserve offer children the chance to build a strong sense of belonging - connecting with country, community, and each other. By stepping away from traditional toys, they learn to engage with their imagination, fostering independence and a sense of pride in the natural world around them."

Pictures from Meeniyan Preschool website.

Source: http://gippsland.com/

Published by: news@gippsland.com