During a Welcome BBQ on Saturday 18 March, existing families at Birrahlee Preschool were on hand to witness the official opening of the new playground areas, by Councillor Deborah Hutchens, Lane Cove Mayor. Designed by Edible Kids Gardens, the redevelopment was made possible with the addition of a $2300 grant from the Lane Cove Council and has significantly enhanced the outdoor space available for the children to play, learn and thrive.
Why plant an Edible Kids Garden?
Birrahlee set out to create a fun, natural environment which is dynamic, ever-changing and enticing for children to explore and stimulate their imagination. The play space needed to engage all the senses through careful selection of textural, colourful and scented plants, foliage and fruits which change through the seasons. Linking to the healthy food policy at Birrahlee, the addition of edible plants and a veggie patch, help connect the children to the food they eat – how their fruit and veggies grow; how soils, air, water, food, animals and waste are so intimately linked; and how each of us has a role to play in contributing to and shaping these systems.
The construction of bridges, pathways and tunnels aim to guide and entice the children through the space while also promoting balance and gross motor skills. Birrahlee Director, Kate Damo has been delighted with the positive feedback on the new upgrades, from both parents and children alike on the Edible Kids Garden.
“Un-structured outdoor play is such an integral part of our day here at Birrahlee. It’s wonderful to see the children forming friendships and using their imagination within the new play areas. From baking “mud pies” to leading expeditions in search of bugs and lizards, the children have really embraced the changes, and are looking after the new gardens with fascination and pride”
About Birrahlee Preschool
Birrahlee Preschool Lane Cove has been providing quality preschool education to the Lane Cove community since 1958. As a community-based not-for-profit organisation, they aim to provide valuable initial experiences and guidance to pre-school children aged 3 – 5 in a safe, friendly and happy environment.
Having recently been rated as “Exceeding” the National Quality Standards by the NSW Department of Education and Communities, Birrahlee’s high quality two and three day program is tailored to each child’s strengths, interests, and unique qualities. It is run by experienced, qualified, caring and consistent staff members (many of which have been at Birrahlee for over 15 and 20 years!).
As a community based preschool, an elected Board of current parents oversees Birrahlee’s management, in a voluntarily capacity. The Board works very closely with the preschool’s Director, all staff members and the Birrahlee community. The Board is accountable for the governance and financial management of the preschool, overseeing strategic direction and monitoring the preschool’s current performance.
Birrahlee is located at 70 Burns Bay Road Lane Cove. For more information visit www.birrahlee.com or contact Kate Damo on (02) 9427 5900
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