Nature Play WA CEO, Kelsie Prabawa-Sear, joined Bec and Asa to talk trees and play.
Kelsie began by highlighting the importance of trees, not just for landscape but as a partner in play.
“Trees are a beautiful part of childhood for most kids,” said Kelsie.
They enhance play, not only by providing shade but offering opportunities for children to use their surroundings differently.
“Things like moving around, climbing trees, being cool enough to sort of run and be really active.”
She also noted the interesting aspects and educational benefits of learning about ecosystems from animals living in trees.
“Trees are amazing!” said Kelsie. “Hopefully kids love them and it also makes them happier when they’re outside playing around trees.”
Ecosystems
“If there are trees and there are branches, sticks and leaves around those trees, we see really interestingly similar types of play.”
One of those things is economies, according to Kelsie.
“Often we’ll see kids that are allowed to play like the bushland near school, they build community projects where they’re role modelling adult economies.
“They use gumnuts as currency that are worth more based on certain jobs.”
“If you can find these special rocks, they’re really valuable. And then they start to do things like develop skills and jobs, you’re in charge of this and you’re in charge of that.
Imaginative Play
Kelsie said there are also cubbies and ways to turn branches into a structure, which is a form of engineering and cooperation.
“This is also imaginative play… because once you have your cubby built, what are you doing? Starting to play.”
Rooted in Relaxation
“When kids even can see trees, so whether it’s through a window or in real life, it helps them feel relaxed. And even for little bubbies, you know, that dappled light and the movement of leaves, they love to see that,” said Kelsie. “It has a really calming, relaxing effect, which helps kids focus. It also helps them with things like communication and emotional regulation, so they play better and learn better.
The Benefits of Mud
“When you’re outside, there are benefits of mud and being around nature, dirt and wind as it is really good for their general immunity and health as well.”
Check out the full chat with Kelsie Prabawa-Sear below.