Come and Get Muddy

Our relaxed playgroups aim to connect kids to nature through fun activities and unstructured play. We provide opportunities for children to build self-esteem through hands-on learning in an urban bush environment. Sessions include bush craft, music and sensory activities and children are empowered to manage their own risk in physical activities. Through the playgroup, we hope to build a love and awareness of wildlife and sustainability in our children.

We welcome all members of the community to bring their children to our playgroup. All materials and equipment are provided; you just need to turn up. Suitable clothing includes hats, long pants and closed toe shoes and wet weather gear if it is raining (it is an all weather playgroup).

The bush playgroup facilitators are Natasha Godfrey, Kali Hulme, and Holly O’Connor Smith with occasional special appearances by our other staff members. As nature-enthusiasts, they lead hands-on nature exploration each session in addition to sensory and physical activities, as well as providing lots of play time. All our facilitators are experienced educators who hold first aid qualifications and working with children checks.

In Term 3 2026, we will be running bush playgroups on Tuesday and Friday in Thornbury, Wednesday in Northcote and, back by popular demand, on Thursday in Reservoir/Bundoora. Most sessions run from 9:30-11:30am, with the exception of Thursdays (10am-12pm). But all are flexible if you need to arrive late or leave early; we understand naps take precedence! Term 3 begins on Monday 13th July and runs for 10 weeks. Prices start from $230 for a single child. Parents are responsible for their own children throughout each session and we recommend bringing a hearty snack along as our little ones get very hungry outdoors! Any further information will be sent to you in a welcome email once you have booked your place, before your term sessions begin.

Please note, you can still book into sessions for the current term at a casual rate of $26/session. This rate decreases for a term-long booking. If you would like to book in for the remainder of term, after term has started, please email us at n8ureplaylearning@gmail.com to organise a reduced-price invoice.

To book in, click the link below:

New in 2026 - Play Therapy in Nature!

Are you looking for a unique and effective way to support your child's emotional growth and confidence?

At Nature Play Learning, we blend the proven principles of Play Therapy with the restorative power of the natural world. Our program is specially designed for children aged 4–6 who may be navigating big feelings, challenging transitions, or early social skills development.