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Nature Play at the Arboretum

Young children in hats playing on picnic mats
A young child wearing a sunhat, mixing dirt and water in an old frying pan
Young children in hats playing on picnic mats
A young child wearing a sunhat, mixing dirt and water in an old frying pan

Overview

Welcome to Nature Play, a weekly nature-based playgroup facilitated by the National Arboretum's outdoor educators, held during the school term. Nature playgroups offer a unique and holistic approach to childhood development, fostering a deep connection between children and the natural world.

Nature Playgroup provides a nurturing space in the peaceful serenity of the forests of the National Arboretum, where children can develop skills at their own pace, build physical and emotional confidence, and unleash their creativity through imaginative play. Whether it's experimenting with earth and water, climbing trees, or engaging in role-play, children gain valuable life skills that go beyond four walls.

This is an outdoor-only event. The group will run in most weather conditions and only be cancelled if there is extreme weather. In the event they must cancel due to unsafe weather conditions, they will transfer your ticket/s to another session of your choice.

Suitable for children aged between 18 months - 5 years, and their carers.
Nature Playgroup runs Mondays and Fridays - from week 2 of term to week 9 (excluding public holidays).
Location: locates to a new forest each term, please check the website to confirm details

Dates

12 May – 12 Dec 2025
May 2025
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September 2025
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October 2025
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November 2025
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National Arboretum CanberraForest Drive, Molonglo, Australian Capital Territory, Australia
Facilities
  • Cafe
  • Carpark
  • Family Friendly
  • Non Smoking
  • Public Toilet
  • Shop / Gift Shop