Botanical Traditions - Taralye Kindergarten

We believe that Kindergarten outdoor play spaces have great importance and a large role in children’s ability to gain valuable experiences. The outdoor environment and the programs that are planned in them, provide unique opportunities to develop and extend children's skills and concepts as well as fostering a sense of excitement about learning and attending school.

In addition to physical development, outdoor play also supports social development and provides children with opportunities for the development of self-esteem and confidence in their own abilities. This proposed design offers both sensory and intellectual nourishment where children can learn by ‘doing’.

The Playspaces at Taralye Kindergaten are shared between a number of classes. The spaces themselves are natural in look and are located next to an existing small stream and grassy area. The playspaces are separated from this area with a tall, black cyclone fence.

The kindergarten buildings are located on a raised area of the site and over look the play spaces and down towards the existing stream.

The two main spaces were in need of rejuvenation while essential activities were not been catered for. Towards the back of both spaces are areas set aside for the construction and layout of play equipment. This equipment is changed and rearranged to provide different challenges and play opportunities for the children. It was felt that this was an essential part of the kindergarten and it was hoped that this approach would be carried through in preference to any fixed play equipment which can tend to limit varied play opportunities.

The Concept design will address the creation of small playspaces within the total design, provide more parent and family friendly spaces and further level areas for outdoor activities. The project was particularry difficult due to the varied and many different views of the parties concerned.

If the concept plan is adopted and all elements constructed the a number of distinct areas will be created where we have combine different textures, colours and scents in an environment which encourages children to expand their experiences. Each space would be filled with objects that can be incorporated into play in many different ways, stimulating the imagination and promoting the ability for children to conjure up ideas from within themselves.

Interaction with plants and the garden is encouraged through flowering, fragrant and tectured plants. Two water play area have been allowed for near rainwater tanks. There are a number of raised vegetable garden beds which make it easy for children, parents and teachers to interact. These raised garden beds could be planted with different vegetables, herbs or colourful flowers depending on the seasons.

Construction of this design will occur as funds become available.