A big Welcome and Hello!

Why get families outdoors? Quite simply, nature is good for us. Evidence shows that it is important, healthy and fun for children to have frequent and varied opportunities for play

outdoors—and especially outdoors with natural vegetation— as a part of their everyday lives. When they do, they are happier, healthier and smarter. They are more self-disciplined and focused. They are more self-confident, creative and cooperative. They are better problem-solvers, more optimistic and more physically fit. Family ties are strengthened, a sense of community is nourished, and a sense of place is cultivated. All in all, nature is good for children and their friends and family, too!

I have been wanting to start up a family group for the longest time now. We as a family endeavour wherever we can to get our kids out exploring, whether it be for a bushwalk, camping, spotlighting at night or going on a treasure hunt. While its fun doing it with our family, I was always of the mindset that it would be great if other families would share the adventure. Kids explore differently when they are doing it with other children. They love to share their discoveries with their peers and communicate and play as children. It is also healthy for kids to be encouraged to have a group of friends outside their school environment, so that if they ever have (heaven forbid) an issue with children at school, they still have other friends and playmates in their lives.

I dream of gathering families together for short hikes with the kids, to get a group together to do the glow worms at night, to have picnics, to explore and learn about our environment, and appreciate nature. I have already had interest expressed to me by various zoos and educational facilities that they would love to be involved, and my aim is that with the strength of large groups, we can harness the power of large group discounts and special tailored tours. Mainly though, the best things in life are free, so the majority of the get togethers will really just involve making the commitment to be there and showing up! 

There is no pressure to be involved more than you want to be. If you can't make it to the next organised day, no problems. The goal is really just to have fun, be creative and spend quality time in this great place we live!!

Any suggestions are helpful, and I would love if you sent me your details so I can keep you informed of the next outing.  See you on the outside!