Frequently Asked Questions

Petal and Play is designed for children aged 2 to 5 years, supporting gentle, play-based school readiness in nature.  The activities are open‑ended and flexible, so each child can join in at their own level of curiosity and ability. 

All children are welcome - you know your child best. 

If you have an older child, feel free to reach out - while this program is tailored for early childhood, we’re working towards offering nature-based experiences for primary-aged children in the future.

Yes! Here’s how it works:

• Babies under 6 months: Free to join in arms, no ticket needed.
• Siblings 6–12 months: Welcome at a reduced rate. They’ll need their own ticket so we can prepare space and activities.
• Siblings over 1 year: Will need their own ticket. Discounted sibling passes are available so your little ones can enjoy the session together.

Petal and Play is held outdoors in nature, with Reggio Emilia inspired stations that spark curiosity through play. We gently weave in school readiness skills like literacy and numeracy without pressure, using natural and eco-friendly materials. More than a class, it’s a warm community where children (and parents) can explore, connect and learn at their own pace. 

 Our sessions are held at Bibra Lake Reserve (City of Cockburn). This beautiful natural space allows children to connect with the environment and explore at their own pace. 

Public toilets are available on site.

Petal and Play is a parent‑accompanied program. Parent involvement is gentle and flexible. Activities are set up so little ones can explore at their own pace, while parents are welcome to join in or simply observe. I will be there to guide the activities, spark curiosity and support both children and parents, so you can relax and enjoy the experience together. 

We recommend bringing a hat, water bottle, a small snack and clothes that can get a little messy. Sessions are outdoors, so dressing for the weather helps make the experience comfortable for both children and parents. 

We believe there’s no such thing as bad weather - only different opportunities for play! Sessions will go ahead in light rain, so dress for the weather. In cases of extreme weather (e.g. storms, strong winds, high fire danger), we will notify families and reschedule if needed. 

Head to the “Book“ section of our website. You can book individual sessions casually or secure a spot for the full term. 

Group sizes are kept small to create a welcoming, calm environment where children feel safe to explore and connect. 

No! Parents, grandparents, and carers are all welcome to come along. We just ask that the focus stays on supporting your little one’s play and learning, and that adults help keep the group calm and connected so everyone can enjoy the session.

At Petal and Play, materials are chosen to spark curiosity and creativity. Children will explore low tox, sustainable and upcycled treasures (where possible) that inspire open ended play. Our paints and playdough are coloured with natural ingredients and we use very little plastic, favouring natural textures and real world objects that nurture imagination. 

We understand that parents and carers may like to capture special moments during Petal and Play. We also love seeing your stories and posts on Instagram.

If you choose to take photos or videos during a session, we kindly ask that you:

• Only photograph or film your own child
• Be mindful and respectful of the privacy of other families by avoiding capturing other children
• Focus on enjoying the moment with your child and soaking up the joy of nature play 

Please note: Petal and Play will never reshare content that shows children’s faces on our social media.

At Petal and Play, we respect your family’s privacy. We do not take or share photos of children’s faces.

From time to time, we may take photographs or short videos that capture the spirit of our sessions - focusing on hands, feet, backs of heads, nature play setups, or artwork. These may be used on our website, social media, or promotional materials to help share what we do.

If you have any concerns or prefer that no images of your child (even from behind) are taken, please let us know - we’re always happy to respect your wishes.

Yes! Petal and Play is a small, gentle program that welcomes all children. As a sole educator, I do my best to create an inclusive, supportive environment. If your child has specific needs and you think I can assist, please get in touch before the session - I’d love to work with you to help your child feel safe, included, and confident to explore.

Some activities, such as small world play, may include small items. If you're bringing younger siblings, please supervise them closely during the session. 

Some sessions may include edible components like fruit for juicing (hello, fine motor fun!) or pasta for threading bracelets. We aim for these items to be sourced through my local Feed It Forward or Community Pantry group. This is produce that’s still good but can no longer be sold in supermarkets.

While any food-based elements or playdough used are non-toxic or technically edible, I don’t recommend a full-on feast!

Yes - Petal and Play operates with public liability insurance, and we conduct site-specific risk assessments. Our risk assessments consider local features, including the presence of native wildlife (such as snakes or turtles), proximity to water, and other environmental factors. 

Petal and Play is led by Cassie, a fully registered teacher with a Working With Children Check and extensive teaching experience.