As a mum to an active two-year-old, I’m always on the lookout for new and exciting ways to engage his boundless energy while nurturing his growing curiosity. So, when I discovered the Nature Craft Club by Murray Forrest Friends, I couldn’t wait to book us in for February. With our love for arts and crafts, plus his obsession with sensory play, which they also run, I knew this would be a hit.
Murray Forrest Friends is a small business in the Peel region that offers incredible outdoor programs focused on sensory and nature-based play. Their mission is to spark children’s imaginations, nurture their creativity and support their development in an enriching and natural environment. We’ve attended a few of their pop-up sessions before, and each time, my son is absolutely captivated by the interactive, hands-on activities.
In February, they’re running a four-week Nature Art Club at Osprey Waters Reserve in Mandurah. Surrounded by open spaces and nature, the kids are encouraged to explore and create. Each session is thoughtfully designed to incorporate sensory activities, like painting with natural materials and exploring textures, sounds, and colours from the environment. My son was over the moon on our first day and announced, “bye, very fun!” when we left.
During Week 1 of the Nature Art Club, the kids got to create plaster art, making both a jar and a canvas. True to my son’s nature, shortly after starting, he decided to go on a T-rex hunt (dinosaurs are his thing!). What was even more amazing was that the host totally embraced this.
She encouraged him to explore with no pressure at all. When he returned to the table, he spotted a monster truck. The host invited him to use the truck to create tracks in his plaster canvas and even gave him paint to make “mud.” It was a total game changer for his engagement, I could see his creativity unfolding.
As a mum, this moment was really heartwarming. I had some worries about whether he’d get frustrated if he didn’t stick to the activity, especially since he loves exploring the trees and beach at this location. Before booking, I asked the host how she’d handle it. Her reassuring response eased my worries, and attending was everything I’d hoped for. The unstructured approach made it a stress-free experience for both of us.
Murray Forrest Friends also offers sensory nature playgroups in Lakelands, which tend to sell out quickly due to their popularity. Plus, if you’re looking for sensory play items at home, they also have an online shop featuring thoughtfully curated materials to support your child’s sensory development.
I can’t recommend Murray Forrest Friends enough. The host’s attention to detail, her warmth, and the flexibility she offers really stand out. It’s not just a craft class; it’s a whole experience that nurtures creativity, exploration and connection. If you’re looking for a program that blends creativity with nature, definitely check them out!
Murray Forrest Friends
www.murrayforrestfriends.com.au/
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Elise is a former nurse who found her true calling as a stay-at-home mum to her IVF miracle. She treasures every moment spent with her son, whether it’s going on new adventures, discovering hidden gems or immersing in creative play. A coffee lover and low-tox enthusiast, Elise is on a mission to create a happy, healthy life for her family, embracing every beautiful moment of motherhood.
