Child-led play in the outdoors (nature play) enriches childhood with movement, with imagination, with friendship, and with all the sensory wonder that nature brings.
It is a joyful part of a full and healthy childhood and it supports every aspect of children’s development including their physical and mental health, social and emotional development, the building of resilience and creativity, and their connection to nature.
But most of all nature play is fun, it’s free, and it is just outside your door.
Here at Nature Play WA we work with families, schools, and communities to elevate awareness of the value nature play brings to children’s development and to ensure every child has access to the time, space, and permission they need for play to support their health and happiness.
Nature Play WA is an incorporated not-for-profit association and a registered charity, dedicated to improving the physical and mental health of Western Australian children by supporting a return to play outdoors and in nature.
We work collaboratively with partners in recreation, education, health, environment, community, and the business world to encourage the WA community to value nature play and for it to be prioritised in children’s lives.
To grow up healthy, children need to sit less and play more.” (World Health Organisation).
In an increasingly sedentary world unstructured, active, outdoor play (nature play) is an essential building block of physical, social and emotional health, and the primary way through which children develop the skills, confidences and competencies that support being active and connected for life.
We create and deliver campaigns, events and resources to support outdoor play and learning for the benefit of all children. Partner with us and make a positive change in the world!
All the tools you need to support childrens' journey into nature play - free, downloadable resources for parents, teachers and the wider community.
We love to share our thoughts on all things nature play, outdoor play and learning, and the importance of risk in play for children. Keep up to date with us at our blog.
