During term time, session run on the following days: During school holidays, sessions run in the first week on: We are located in parks across central Auckland, such as - Maungakiekie (One Tree Hill Domain) and Cornwall Park - Maungawhau (Mt Eden) - Auckland Domain We may also organise excursions to beaches and nature walks in the Auckland area. The exact location of each session is communicated to families in a private messenger group each week. Please note that the location is subject to change due to the weather, season and group size. Please contact Janina for the full terms and conditions.

Yes, we are outside in all weather as long as it's safe. During summer, we find shade under the trees, and during winter, we keep ourselves warm by staying active. When it rains, we set up a rain shelter, and wear rain gear to stay dry in wet weather and wear sun protection in summer. Different seasons and weather conditions provide different experiences which are great opportunities for learning, e.g. how to cope with challenges and be self-responsible . If there's a weather warning, such as high winds, storms, or torrential rains, we may move to alternative locations like the Royal Oak Scout Hall or Auckland Domain/Museum.

All children’s physical and emotional safety and social well-being is paramount. Freedom Kids Nature Play sessions involve an element of risky play, such as climbing, physical games with others, running, exploring areas of water and the use of tools, ropes, natural materials, and loose parts. Risky and self-chosen play is essential for healthy development and to manage risk later in life. Children are seen as capable and we empower them to explore their capabilities safely by discussing safety rules and boundaries in our group. Children actively participate in assessing risks and receive coaching as needed, especially in activities like climbing, stick play, and using tools. Our educators are experts in assessing risks in the outdoors, are first aid trained and have a first aid kit on hand at all times.

Freedom Kids provides an environment for mixed-age learning in a small group in the outdoors, focusing on relationships, creativity, problem-solving, connecting with nature and collaboration. Children are seen as capable and their needs are taken seriously. Janina is a highly experienced nature pedagogue who values loving care and strong emotional bonds to support children in times when emotions run high. Instead of being taught, motivated or entertained, children are supported through coaching to make decisions, set their own limits, have group discussions and learn through peer interactions, trial and error, positive role-modelling and trusting relationships. “To take children seriously is to value them for who they are right now rather than adults-in-the-making.” ~ Alfie Kohn Freedom Kids sessions are a perfect opportunity for social learning and developing a growth mindset! Families usually notice positive changes in their children after as little as 4 weeks of attending Freedom Kids. Whether your family home-educates or your children attend regular school- anyone can join!

“Play seems to be one of the most advanced methods nature has invented to allow a complex brain to create itself.” ― Stuart Brown, Play: How it Shapes the Brain, Opens the Imagination, and Invigorates the Soul At Freedom Kids, children are coached and guided to extend their innate abilities through play and exploration. In a mixed-age group, children can learn from one another and develop social skills such as empathy, cooperation, and leadership. An important part of learning at Freedom Kids is group discussions, where children learn to form and express an opinion, listen to others, make plans and negotiate. Mastering transferable soft skills is key to success in any area, e.g. family, school or workplace. At Freedom Kids children have a plethora of opportunities to learn the soft skills that are essential in the 21st century, including critical thinking, communication skills, creativity, problem-solving, perseverance, and collaboration. Here are some examples of learning on a physical, cognitive, emotional and spiritual level:

The adult-to-child ratio is 1:7, with a maximum group size of 14 children. We would love to have you visit! Please email for a free visit to see us in action! Or join us during school holidays for a full day of outdoor fun or for up to 3 trial sessions before committing to the term! Trial days are offered for $60 Casual sessions during term time may be available for children with Forest School experience. Please get in touch to talk about options!

Freedom Kids Nature Play runs on a term-by-term basis. School holiday sessions are optional and can be booked separately. We want to enable children from all backgrounds to thrive through Nature Play! Therefore, term enrolment is on a sliding scale between $65- $88 per session, depending on your family's situation. A gear and resources contribution of $30 per child applies each term. Trial sessions are $60 for up to three sessions during term. Please contact Janina to book a visit or ask for the full terms and conditions.

Schools have the authority to release a student from school for specialised programmes such as a Forest School at their discretion. Most schools nowadays recognise the importance of play in brain development in children. The widely known advantages of spending time in nature for our physical and mental well-being are also gaining more recognition. I am happy to provide a letter that outlines the benefits of Nature Play for the school principal to help with the conversation. Please get in touch if you would like to discuss this.

We wish for all children to be able to attend. Nature is healing, and most children benefit from outdoor play. Please discuss your child's individual needs with us to see if we can cater to them.