Hand in hand joyfully we begin our adventure to Dingle Dell. A precious forest merely 5 minutes stroll from kindergarten, 10 minutes for the sake of being allowed to meander with our inquisitive tamariki.

Out the gate and past the shops we go, a rumble of preschoolers eager to show independence as they set off outside of the usual play.
While some are busily asking questions, others are quietly observing the path, and happy to take it all in…. one gumboot at a time.

We so often take for granted simple things like gumboots, forest walks, discovery of somewhere new, even patiently waiting at a pedestrian crossing and general adventures. Our lives are so often lived beat to beat, as the modern day doesn’t allow for walking, rather rushing, activities, in and out of the car. This is time to wander and be slow.

As we find our way down to the open space, you feel an urge to explore.
It is a time where children and adults alike are free, and pure discovery is at the forefront without expectation.
No clipboards or agendas, no forms to fill out, just fun to have and memories to make.
Sticks are marvelous don’t you know! They come in all shapes and sizes and seeing the genuine awe of finding the perfect one, will give any adult alongside shivers of glee.
You will most likely get mud in your hair!

The children learn. They learn by being there and their peer conversations. Not scripted or prompted.
Things like teamwork and building log crossings over streams then using them.
It’s chats about clearing streams from rubbish because they know that it doesn’t belong there.
It’s pointing to birds.
It’s running in big circles, and touching leaves.

As adults we are consumed with thoughts, planning and timetables because we have to. Being away in nature resets us and allows us to feel and be surprised, albeit for two hours, or even having a roll-on effect for the rest of the day.

Early on as the Dingle Dell days were blossoming, it naturally felt so right in appreciation, to hug a tree. This gesture evolved into holding hands as a group around the tree and saying a Karakia and Waiata in honour of the trip. This tradition has been a special part of the trip each time.
Respect, acknowledgment and importantly love is what the trip serves us and in hope will serve Papatūānuku in the future. Love for Mother Earth.

I feel fortunate St Heliers Kindergarten have made it normal to take the time to delight the tamariki and parent helpers and teachers alike in walks, and especially ones right in our neighborhood.
What a special day it is and a heartfelt thank you.

Shevaun Towers, St Heliers Kindergarten alumnae circa 1985-1987
3 children through St Heliers Kindy and 1 yet to go.