FAQs
What’s included in the session?
You’ll arrive to our little picnic-style basecamp tucked into nature - a shady nook with rugs and cushions, bubbles drifting past, nature books, and a hot cuppa waiting. We begin at 9:45 with a short welcome so you know what’s ahead and a gentle connection activity to help us all find our rhythm together over the term.
From there, the morning stretches out into proper child-led exploration: mud or water play, climbing trees, digging, and all the gloriously messy, hands-on discovery that the outdoors invites. Alongside that, we offer thoughtfully prepared play invitations - seasonal crafts using natural materials, hands on eco-focused activities, loose parts gathered from the landscape, tools for curious hands, and simple provocations that help children lean into the wildness of the space.
Feel free to eat, breastfeed, or change your child whenever you need to. There’s no expectation to stay put or stay the whole time - come and go in whatever way works for your family. Just remember to check the hazard register when you arrive and to sign in and out.
We bring everything: all craft resources, natural materials, sensory play, the discovery kitchen gear, and any special additions planned for the day.
Behind the scenes, your session fee covers high-quality materials, insurance, hazard management, and our experienced, first-aid-trained facilitators. You simply arrive, settle in, and enjoy a morning filled with fun and adventure with your little explorers.
When/how long are the sessions?
In term 1, 2026 we’re running sessions on Tuesdays & Thursdays, and if there is enough interest in future we will put on additional sessions for other days- go to the home page to register your interest for other days.
Our playgroup runs from 9.45am to 12.30pm. Life with kids is a wild little circus, so late arrivals and early exits are no issue. If you can make it for the start, we’d love that though - we kick things off with a quick intro, any need-to-know info, and a simple parent connection activity to help everyone build relationships gently over time.
What do we need to bring?
Both caregivers and children should come prepared with weather-appropriate clothing. At a minimum you will need to own full rain gear—waterproof jackets and pants, warm top layers (i.e. polarfleece jumpers) — thermal underlayers made of merino or polypropylene (no cotton), hats (cold + sun) and gloves, gumboots, and wool socks. Sturdy, closed toe footwear is essential for everyone, no matter the weather. For non-walkers we recommend waterproof onesies that can cover their feet, or overbooties. In cold or wet weather we can’t permit attendees wearing cotton sweatshirts, cotton t-shirts, cotton trackpants or jeans.
All attendees need to bring snacks, water, and a packed lunch. On cold days we recommend bringing some hot food in a thermos if that is something your child will eat. It’s also important to pack a full change of clothes for messy play or if you get wet. Don’t forget any personal medications or items your child or you may need during the session.
Please note, as organisers we are legally required to ensure all participants have the correct gear. If you arrive without the appropriate clothing or footwear, we may have to ask you to leave the session. Being well prepared helps everyone stay safe, comfortable, and enjoy the day to the fullest.
My child always refuses to wear a jacket/shoes. What happens?
Sometimes kids need to take their gear off —to change or cool down—but most of the time they need to keep it on when the weather calls for it. For everyone’s safety, to keep it fair on other kids, and because we’re legally required to look out for everyones safety - if a child can’t keep the necessary gear on and risks getting too cold/too wet/sunburnt etc, unfortunately they won’t be able to stay at the session. Thanks so much for understanding!
Where are the sessions held?
We love exploring different parks, reserves, and natural spaces around Selwyn. Most of our locations are within a 20-minute drive of Rolleston, and we change spots each week to keep things fresh and exciting. You’ll get the details in your booking confirmation email, and if the weather (or anything else) means we need to change plans, we’ll let you know as early as possible.
Remind me what child-led free play actually is?
This means kids are in charge of their play. They decide what to do, how to do it, and who to do it with. Grown-ups hang back a little, making sure no one sets themselves on fire, eats a slug, or attempts a triple backflip off a log.
We believe children have the right to make their own decisions. When adults control, instruct, or constantly say “be careful!”, it interrupts their focus and takes away the chance for them to figure things out for themselves.
Our job is to provide a safe space, trust the process, and interfere as little as possible. If a child asks for help, we’re right there — but until then, we let the play (and the mud, and the stick huts, and the bug rescues) run its course.
What happens in bad weather?
We play in all weather – rain, shine, and wind are part of the adventure! Braving the elements builds resilience and often leads to our best sessions, with kids (and adults!) building shelters, splashing in puddles, and getting creative outdoors.
If conditions are unsafe (severe wind, flooding, extreme heat, lightening), we’ll do our best to arrange an alternative venue with suitable shelter (such as a community centre) so the session can still go ahead.
Do parents stay with their children?
Yes – we’re a parent/caregiver-supervised playgroup. Parents and caregivers stay for the whole session and join in the fun. We’re all about a friendly, relaxed vibe – think good chats, a hot cuppa (byo cup with lid), and maybe even some home baking. Got ideas for making sessions even better for parents? Bring ’em on – we’re all ears.
