Instead of both Mum and Dad working on-farm, one or both parents have started seeking a second income in town.

In a bid to meet the shifting needs of rural families, Northern Roads Activity Van has created a bush pre-school at the Ross Hill Reserve.

Seen as a way to bring the bush to these country kids who now visit town more regularly, bush pre-school is not a new concept.

Educator Kylie Hill said the idea flourished to ensure farm kids don’t lose the experience of being in their own rural communities.

“Historically, the activity van would have the pre-school out at Graman or other rural communities but now parents are working in town, they’re seeking that centre base pre-school. 

“Bush pre-school allows them to have the same experience, be in the same environment to encourage early risk management and freedom to explore.” 

Based out of Grow Family Daycare in Campbell Street, bush pre-schoolers will spend their day exploring the reserve, playing imaginative games, building shelters, counting found objects and drawing from life.

With full support from Inverell Shire Council, the reserve was chosen as a suitable location and educators underwent forest school training in preparation.

“Part of bush pre-school is encouraging early risk management strategies that will ensure young children start to consider the consequences of their actions.”

With an increasing reliance on digital and electronic sources, the bush pre-school will encourage young minds to explore at their own pace, facing challenges without modern technology.

In extreme weather conditions, children will be based at the centre. A yoga program will also be introduced for that “above and beyond” experience.

Term one will be based around safety awareness and children will steadily be introduced to the Ross Hill Reserve.

For more information contact the IDFS office on 6722 4038 or email nrav1@idfs.net.au.