FAQs

  • The philosophy behind Mindful Wild Steps is simple - connection, nature, and whole-child wellbeing.

    It’s about slowing down, letting kids learn through play and curiosity, and creating a space where families can connect with each other, the land, and themselves.

    Rooted in gentle parenting, mental health awareness, and a love for outdoor learning, it’s a space that honours childhood as it unfolds naturally.

  • Children engage in arts, nature crafts, explorative play, practical bush skills, learning about local flora and fauna, freeplay, storytelling, life skills and more.

  • Our sessions are flexible, letting the children lead. We start with an Opening circle, yoga and breathing, then offer themed activities alongside free play. We close with a circle, often with book readings or reflections.

  • Nope! Mindful Wild Steps isn’t a school or a replacement for schooling.

    It’s a nature-based program designed to complement home education, supporting whole-child growth, connection, and learning through play, exploration, and community.

  • Based in Tasmania, our main locations are in Mangalore, New Norfolk and Carlton, with single sessions in Sorell, Campania, and Buckland. We also offer statewide pop-ups.

  • Mindful Wild Steps offers sessions for children aged 0 to 13+.

    Our Mindful Minis are for little ones aged 0–3, while Wild Steps is designed for children aged 4–13+.

    We welcome a beautiful mix of ages and love seeing kids of all stages learning and growing together.

  • No, an adult must be present with your child during sessions.

  • Group sizes range from 5 to 15 children, ensuring a nurturing and safe environment.

  • Yes - we run in most weather!

    Mindful Wild Steps is all about connecting with nature, rain or shine. We embrace the seasons, puddles, mud, and all.

    The only time we cancel is for extreme weather (like strong winds, thunderstorms, or unsafe heat). Otherwise, gumboots and raincoats are always welcome!

  • For children under 3, we recommend Mindful Minis. Younger siblings can attend Wild Steps sessions but won’t participate in the themed activities.

  • Mindful Minis is designed for ages 0-3. Older siblings may attend if necessary but might not find the activities engaging.

  • I don’t offer casual bookings or mid-term starts because regular participation is essential for building a strong sense of community and belonging. However, I do offer a half-term option for those needing more flexibility, though full-term attendance is preferred for the best experience.

  • Half-term consists of at least 5 chose-your-own-days sessions, including the first and last days of the term, to foster community.

  • Yes, our gentle, nature-based environment can reduce anxiety and build confidence in children experiencing school avoidance.

  • You can cancel within 7 days of booking for a full refund. After that, refunds or credits are considered on a case-by-case basis.

  • Mindful Wild Steps began as a way to support my own home educated children, a small weekly group rooted in nature, connection, and gentle community.
    It grew from my passion for outdoor learning, home ed, and children’s mental health.

  • Yes, we are fully insured, ensuring the safety of our wildlings and their families.

  • Your investment supports resources, materials, the development of a safe outdoor learning environment, business cost, insurance and so much more.

  • Our locations are often on private property. After booking a session, you’ll receive the address in a confirmation email. This information is only shared with those who have booked.

  • Yes, I may take photos and videos during sessions, but I ensure children’s faces are turned away or blurred to protect their privacy. If you take photos, please do the same. If you’d like a photo of your child removed, just contact me, and I’ll be happy to take it down.

  • Nope, I’m not a childcare or school.

    Mindful Wild Steps is a nature-based program designed to complement home education, not replace it.

    It’s a space for connection, play, and learning through the rhythms of nature - with parents and caregivers attending alongside their children.

Green Steps Sponsorship FAQs

  • No, contributions to the Green Steps Sponsorship are not tax-deductible. Mindful Wild Steps is a for-profit business, and this initiative is designed to make our programs more accessible to families who may not otherwise be able to attend.

  • Once you contribute, your funds go directly toward the specific spot you’ve chosen to support (e.g., Wild Steps, ConnectDAD, or Mindful Minis). Progress bars on the page are updated as funding grows.

    When a spot is fully funded, it becomes "Available" for a family to claim. After the spot is claimed, it will be marked as "Claimed." No further updates or details are provided, but your contribution is making a difference—thank you!

  • No, the allocation of sponsored spots is determined through an application process. Families interested in claiming a spot complete a short application explaining why they’d love to join. This ensures the spots go to those who need them most.

  • You can contribute as much or as little as you’d like! Every dollar helps bring us closer to opening a spot for someone in need. Contributions from the community are pooled together until the funding goal for a spot is reached.