General News
26 December, 2024
Local kindergartens receive state grants
Two local early childhood facilities have been awarded funding as part of the state’s $9,000 latest investment round in bush kinder programs.
Green Park Horsham and Edenhope Early Childhood Service are among the beneficiaries, each receiving a one-off $6,000 grant.
The funding will enable the facilities to purchase essential items and equipment to establish and enhance their outdoor learning programs.
Edenhope Early Childhood Service teacher Susanne Liang said the grant will fulfill their requirements.
“We can start bush kinder with this grant and will start spending it in Term 2 next year,” she said.
“We will buy raincoats, outdoor mats, and portable toilets for the site which we have already decided. The site is just a 15 minute walking distance from our facility.
“It will help kids to do outdoor activities and spend time in a natural environment.
“I’m very happy that the funding can cover the things that we want.”
The Bush Kinder initiative encourages children to engage with nature as part of their early education, fostering physical activity, environmental awareness, and hands-on learning experiences in natural settings.
The educational program is based on evidence showing that regular outdoor play provides substantial benefits for a child’s learning, development, physical health, mental health, and overall well-being.
Children who experience bush kinder develop greater confidence and capabilities while learning how to recognise and manage risks in new environments.
Victorian minister for children Lizzie Blandthorn said these programs will help in the early development of the children.
“We all want the best for our kids and teaching them about the great outdoors is good for their well-being, physical development and connection to nature,” she said.
“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.”
Kindergartens without access to an appropriate off-site location can use their funding to enhance the biodiversity of their current outdoor spaces.