A haven for sustainable outdoor play and exploration
Nestled in a thoughtfully designed and compact site, Hobsons Bay Farm offers a unique and enriching experience for young children. Three years ago, Paul Fitzgerald, Jonny Isacsson, and Shane Creaney seeded this innovative program to supplement Paul and Jonny’s service, Kids by the Bay. Since then, Farm Kinder has expanded to host other kinder groups.
At Farm Kinder, children freely explore and connect with nature. With excellent visibility and safety, the site encourages independent exploration. Activities like repotting strawberry plants, digging in compost, and feeding goats immerse children in hands-on learning, fostering curiosity and a love for nature. An outdoor yarn circle surrounded by edible indigenous plants adds to the experience.
A cohesive and passionate team of educators provides hands-on learning about ecosystems, sustainability, animal care, harvesting, and the changing seasons. These activities help children understand the natural world and their role in preserving it.
Despite there being at least twenty children present on the day ACA Victoria visited, there was an overwhelming sense of calm and content. The serene atmosphere allows children to engage in a variety of activities that foster learning and development through outdoor play.
Farm Kinder’s simplicity masks the meticulous planning and ongoing effort behind it. Jonny and Shane’s dedication is evident in every aspect of the program. On weekends, Farm Kinder opens for birthday parties, sharing its space and animals with the public, emphasising its commitment to community education and sustainability.
Whether feeding animals, digging compost, pruning trees, or harvesting vegetables, children are developing essential life skills and a sense of environmental responsibility. This innovative approach to early childhood education highlights the benefits of connecting horticulture with outdoor play, blending intentional and unstructured activities.
Enquiries:
Kids by the Bay Children’s Centre – Email Paul
Kids by the Bay Farm Kinder – Email Jonny
