Work

Teaching First Nations Perspectives Through Nature-Based Early Childhood Education: Insights from Australian Bush Kinder Ethnography

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Recent revisions of Australia’s Early Years Learning Framework have increased expectations for educators to integrate outdoor learning and First Nations perspectives into early childhood education. However, limited research explains how educators practically embed Indigenous knowledge within nature-based pedagogies. This study explores how early childhood educators incorporate First Nations perspectives within Australian bush kinder programs. Using an ethnographic approach, data were collected through observations conducted within a longitudinal bush kinder project and interviews with an experienced nature-based educator. Findings demonstrate how educators apply a seven-step pedagogical strategy involving professional learning, curriculum integration, community engagement, culturally inclusive environments, reflective practice, everyday integration, and reconciliation awareness. This study contributes a practical pedagogical framework supporting educators to respectfully embed First Nations perspectives within nature-based early childhood contexts.

Source: Cross Connect (Southern Cross University)

Authors: Speldewinde, Christopher, Womersley, Sarah, Infantino, Suzanne, Campbell, Coral

Institutions: Southern Cross University, Deakin University

Language: English

Topic: Indigenous and Place-Based Education

Subfield: Education

Field: Social Sciences

Domain: Social Sciences

SDG: Quality education

Open Access status: green

OpenAlex ID: W7213959515

FWCI:

Cites: 34

Cited by:

Related to: 10