Drop-Off or Stay? Navigating Parental Choices in Nature Immersion Programs
You may have seen the terms "drop off program" or "stay and play" and thought, hang on a minute! What on earth are they talking about?! And you would be right to be confused because when we think about school or childcare, there really isn't the option to decide if you want to stay and hang out with your child while they immerse themselves in play (and therefore learning!). This is one (of many) key differences between WildPlay Co Nature Immersion programs and school or childcare options (want to read more about the differences? read this blog post). We give you the choice of whether or not you would like to stay and play with your child at Bush Kindy or Homeschool Group, or if you would prefer to drop off. Read on to learn more about what you can expect if you stay, what drop off looks like and how WildPlay Co supports parents in making the best decision for their child.
Why Parents May Want to Stay
The number of parents or carers who stay at our Bush Kindy or Homeschool sessions ebbs and flows depending on who is booked in for the term. There are many that do choose to stay and the reasons are varied. The most common are;
To provide comfort and a sense of security (especially if new to program, child finds separation from parent tricky or child has never attended any form of care)
To be a witness to their child's learning and involvement in the program
To support their neurodivergent child
Regardless of the reason, WildPlay Co will always welcome parents and carers with open arms if they want to stay and be involved in their child's learning and play. It is our aim to provide a nurturing and flexible environment for all children and their families.
Why Parents May Need to Drop Off
WildPlay Co offer a drop-off service for both our Bush Kindy and Homeschool programs as we know that some families either want this, or need this option. Work schedules sometimes mean that even though a parent would like to stay with a child, this isn't possible. Others recognise the opportunity to build independence in their child as well as developing the skill of socialising in a peer-only environment. There are just some children who adapt better and feel more comfortable in the program without the presence of a parent. It is very individual and there is no right or wrong. In the end, the parent knows their child best and therefore which option is best for their child.
Supporting the Transition
We have quite a few parents or carers who begin the term attending programs with their child with the intent to gradually transition to dropping their child off. We call this 'supported drop off', where WildPlay Co staff will work with the parent or carer and the child to develop a strong relationship along with sense of security and familiarity so that when that time comes, the child will feel safe and secure in the program. Open communication is the key here! Staff need to know that there is a plan for transition so that we can work on that with you and your child over a series of weeks. This transition phase looks different for everyone and we are happy to tailor a plan that works for you and your family's unique needs.
Success Stories
Many parents have successfully navigated this transition phase. Here are a few stories (names changed to protect privacy);
Lucy (4 years)
Lucy started attending our bush kindy program with her mum and younger sister in term 2, 2024. I spoke with mum in the early days who indicated that she would like to transition to drop off but is in no rush to so. All three enjoyed a full term of Bush Kindy with Lucy gaining confidence every session. I paid particular attention to developing a mutual friendship with Lucy and I could see over time that she felt comfortable with me and safe in our program. In term 3 this year, Lucy started attending Bush Kindy on her own and is doing an amazing job! Mum and little sis bring her up to the Sedgwick site where we all do the Acknowledgement to Country together before mum leaves and Lucy begins her bush play. Kudos to mum who worked incredibly hard to make this transition so successful!
Navy (3.5 years)
Navy has never been to any form of care and therefore has never spent a significant amount of time away from her primary carer. In the early days, Navy would get quite anxious even when mum was at the session, but out of site. Mum spoke to me at the end of term one suggesting that she would like to gradually transition to drop off. I worked hard to gain Navy’s trust, who doesn't give it away freely! We bonded over a shared love of 'baking in the mud kitchen' and after a full term, Navy was ready for mum to go. Mum was so happy to have that time for herself knowing that her child felt safe and secure while playing and learning in nature.
There are so many positive outcomes for both options; staying with your child or dropping them off. The choice is as individual as the child themselves! We see safe and secure kids open to engage in play when their parent or carer is present. We also see independent and resilient kids who are at Bush Kindy or Homeschool Group on their own.
Conclusion
WildPlay Co Nature Immersion programs are unique in that parents and carers have the choice to stay and play with their child or to drop them off for a Bush Kindy or Homeschool session. This choice means that you can make a decision that meets the needs of your family with WildPlay Co there to support you the whole way! If you would like more information on our programs or to discuss personalised support for you child, please reach out https://www.wildplayco.com.au/contact.
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