Nature Plays - Forest School - Child Development

Nature Plays - Forest School - Cape Town

SPOTLIGHT

What’s on this term at NATURE PLAYS?

EXPLOREPLAYLEARN

Nature Plays is South Africa’s first forest school

Founded 2018
Based in Cape Town

We believe that the best way to support childhood development is by letting kids explore, play, and learn in nature. By establishing a strong connection to nature, we develop our self-confidence, we build resilience and creative thinking while spending time outdoors.

Forest School Weekly Sessions

Looking for enrichment beyond the daily routine? Our optional weekly extra mural sessions offer exploration of their environment with supporting themes like nature art, river play, whittling and more. Let your child’s curiosity soar!

Forest House Daily Playgroup

Immerse your little one in the wonders of nature with our daily playgroup program. Through exploration, discovery, and imaginative play, they’ll build a deep connection with the environment and foster a love of learning.

Termly Forest Holiday Club

School’s out, but the fun keeps going! Our termly holiday clubs provide extended adventures and in-depth exploration for your child. Imagine weeks filled with fort-building, slackline play, bug & frog discovery and creative play under the open sky.

Why Nature Plays is the Perfect Place for Your Child

Unleash Wonder & Awe: Nature ignites a spark of curiosity, inspiring exploration and imaginative play in a world full of discovery.
Learn Through Play: Play is a child’s language! At Nature Plays, exploration becomes education, fostering a love of learning that sticks.
Happier, Healthier Kids: Research shows outdoor play promotes happiness, well-being, and a deeper connection with the world around them.
Deeper Experiences: We nurture the freedom to explore, sparking curiosity and igniting a lifelong love for nature’s wonders.
Confidence Builders: Through play and exploration, children develop a sense of self-worth and a “can-do” attitude.
Creativity Unleashed: Nature ignites your child’s imagination, encouraging creative expression and fostering unique ways of thinking.
Resilience for Life: By facing challenges in the natural world, children build resilience and problem-solving skills that benefit them throughout life.
Collaboration & Teamwork: Nature Plays cultivates a spirit of collaboration and teamwork as children play, explore and learn together.

    
 
 
       Posted on Google  
   
   Andreas Tindlund 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Our son had a fantastic birthday party with Nature Plays! We hosted a group of 12 boys in Van Riebeeck Park, and the party planners were absolutely great to work with. Bronwyn handled the boys so well—she found just the right balance between structured activities and allowing them to play freely in nature. We couldn't have asked for a better experience and would highly recommend them to any parents looking for a fun, outdoor party!
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Marina Haim 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I couldn’t recommend Nature Play more! Pamela and her team are extremely professional, welcoming and knowledgeable.

Having the forest as a learning environment is not only enriching for the children, but also so rewarding as a parent. Knowing that my kids are spending their days outdoors, exploring, having fun and learning what truly matters is something I really value.

Such a special place!
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Vicky Alvarez Campos 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We had such a wonderful experience with Nature Plays Forest School! My two daughters joined the Spring Holiday Club for a few days and had the best time.
Every day brought something different — from beautiful sunny days to rainy adventures — and they absolutely loved every minute of it. Being outdoors, exploring the river and forest, going on walks and getting creative with crafts made each day feel like a little adventure.
A special thank you to the wonderful facilitators, especially Minke, Engracia and Jed, who made their time there extra special. They came home happy, tired and full of stories every day!
Would highly recommend Nature Plays to any family looking for a fun, creative and nature-filled experience for their kids. ❤️
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Melanie Mokgatla 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Most amazing program! The freedom of nature, educational activities, competent leaders. This is what childhood is supposed to be!
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Leanne Raw 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Great little school with excellent staff
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Su Little 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Nature Plays Forest School has been an absolute highlight of our school holidays! The curriculum is fantastic and kept my son engaged and excited every single morning. The kids learn all about what you can do in the forest. They discover bugs, learn the value of teamwork, build, make crafts, play and even go fishing. It's always been an incredible experience, and my son goes every school holiday because he simply can't get enough!

A huge shout out to the facilitators, who take such wonderful care of the children and instil strong values and knowledge in their young minds. If you're looking for a meaningful, outdoor holiday camp in Cape Town for kids aged 5 to 10, I can't recommend Nature Plays Forest School highly enough.
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Celeste Munge 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I cant think of a better way for my boy to spend his holidays other than in nature with friends and the best facilitators. Always back with a smile and a new invention that they treasure.
Thank you Nature Plays. Till the next one!
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Lisa Patterson 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. This is my son’s best holiday camp! He’s been going for years! So much fun outdoors rain or shine!
  
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Melissa Latimer 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Engracia and her team delivered an absolutely impeccable forest fairy birthday party for my daughter’s 6th birthday, held in the Constantia Green belt. The girls made fairy crowns, wands and magic potions and fished and waded in the stream. An incredibly magical time was had by all💚  Engracia went above and beyond to ensure seamless pre planning and organisation of the party and was calm and responsive at every step of the way. Thank you Engracia 🙏