About Us
Bush Kindy at Gumnut Gardens
Learning with Nature as Our Teacher
Bush Kindy is a core part of the Gumnut Gardens Early Learning and Long Day Care curriculum. Come rain or shine, our Jarjums (children) embark on Bush Kindy adventures twice a week, exploring nearby parklands to develop vital risk-assessment skills and deepen their connection to the natural world.
We are fortunate to be located near beautiful green spaces, conducting Bush Kindy sessions in Centennial Park and Five Dock Park. These experiences allow our Jarjums to engage in rich, meaningful play well beyond the confines of the centre playground. Our goal is to nurture executive functioning and self-regulation through open-ended outdoor exploration.
The walk to the park itself is an adventure—full of wonder and learning.
As they travel over a kilometre on foot, the children build resilience and physical confidence.
They practice crossing roads safely, greet friendly neighbours along the way, and observe the beauty of their local community, from native flora and fauna to the charming cafés and gardens they pass.
Once at the park, nature becomes a captivating and inspiring teacher.
Our Jarjums climb trees and rock walls, investigate tiny creatures, and observe birds and owls in their natural habitat. They lie on the grass beneath the trees, making angel patterns with their arms and legs, or jump from branches onto the soft earth below, feeling brave and free. Even rainy days are embraced with joy—muddy puddles become a favourite playground for splashing and laughter.
Both Centennial Park and Five Dock Park sit on the traditional lands of the Bidjigal and Gadigal people.
Before play, we gather as a group to acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of the land and honour the wisdom and care of Elders past and present. Our Jarjums are learning that they too have a role to play in protecting Country. They make simple but powerful pledges—such as picking up litter to protect animals from harm caused by plastic pollution.
Through Bush Kindy, the children develop a deep sense of geographical wonder and environmental stewardship.
Among the rustling trees, bird calls, and shifting light, they find peace and joy in the rhythms of nature. These moments become a sensory-rich meditation—a time of awe, presence, and meaningful connection to the land.