A weekly outdoor, child-led playgroup for children aged 0–6 at Alex Wilkie Nature Reserve, encouraging sensory exploration and outdoor play for families in Springvale South.
Ongoing activity
Alex Wilkie Nature Reserve, 8 MacKay St, Springvale South VIC 3172, Australia
Free
Bring your little ones to Nature Play for a relaxed morning of outdoor play and discovery at Alex Wilkie Nature Reserve. This child-led playgroup is designed to let curious 0–6 year olds explore the bush, meet local birds and insects, and enjoy sensory activities while parents soak up fresh air and community connection.
You can expect a friendly, unstructured session led by a qualified ranger that begins with a short nature walk to introduce children to local flora and fauna. Outdoor play and exploration are encouraged, with an emphasis on sensory experiences and gentle learning through play.
Activities are child-led, so children are free to touch, listen and investigate at their own pace. Parents will often find their children happily occupied exploring textures, smells and sounds along the Sense Trail, which is perfect for building observation skills and confidence in nature.
Sessions are relaxed but structured enough to offer variety: expect nature walks, sensory play, storytelling and opportunities to observe birds, insects and small animals. These moments make great memories and help foster a lasting love of outdoor play and nature.
Nature Play runs weekly during school terms on Tuesdays from 10:00 to 11:00, with every second week in winter as noted on the program schedule. The sessions are aimed at children aged 0–6 and their accompanying adults, making it a perfect early-years outdoor playgroup for young families.
Typical session elements include:
- Short guided nature walks led by a ranger
- Sensory exploration along the Sense Trail
- Open-ended play with natural materials that encourages curiosity and confidence
Places are limited and the program may be cancelled in severe weather; registered participants will be notified. This is excellent outdoor play and nature-based learning for preschool-aged children and their parents.
The program meets at Alex Wilkie Nature Reserve, MacKay Street, Springvale South — an accessible and family-friendly bushland reserve ideal for young children to explore. The reserve offers natural trails and shaded areas that suit mornings of outdoor play and sensory activities.
There is limited parking nearby and paths that are suitable for prams, though some uneven ground should be expected along the Sense Trail. Parents are encouraged to wear sturdy shoes and sun protection and to bring a blanket or small mat for sitting if needed.
Public transport options serve the Springvale South area; check local timetables for the best route. The ranger-led location is easy to find on arrival and signage directs families to the meeting point within the reserve.
This program is aimed at children aged 0–6 and their families; adults must remain with children for supervision. Nature Play does not run on public holidays and will follow school term dates, with altered frequency in winter (every second week).
In severe weather the program may be cancelled; registered participants will receive notification. Please dress children for the outdoors, including sun hats in warmer months and warm layers in cooler weather to ensure comfort during sensory play.
All activities are low-cost and nature-focused; parents should be aware of natural surfaces and occasional insects or wildlife encounters which are part of the learning experience. First aid is available via the facilitator, and parents should advise of any specific allergies or needs when registering.
The program is free to attend but places are limited and registrations are required. Bookings can be made via email or by telephone; the page lists registration via email [email protected] or phone 8571 1843 so please contact the council to secure a spot.
Sessions run Tuesdays during school terms from 10:00–11:00 and do not run on public holidays. Arrive a few minutes early to get settled and maximise outdoor playtime; this program is ideal for parents seeking outdoor activities, nature play, sensory experiences and community connection for little ones.
There is no cost for Nature Play, but remember to register in advance to guarantee a place. Bring water, appropriate clothing and a sense of adventure for a relaxed morning of outdoor play at Alex Wilkie Nature Reserve.
