Launching into Learning had a wonderful bush walk at Ferndene Friday 19.

We explored the creek and wondered what lives in there. We noticed the water moving quickly.

We heard bird sounds and thought about how many birds lived here? What do they look like?

There were some fungus spotters among the children, taking the time to look closely, the forest floor a delight to observe.

Leaf litter made us ponder; is there something eating the leaves? Was it a big or small animal/insect? Why don’t they finish the leaves they start? Could it be The Very Hungry Caterpillar?

A spontaneous ‘wallaby surprise’ startled some as we trekked toward Browning’s Tunnel, jumping off quickly through the scrub, eager to move away from our curious (and sometimes loud) voices.

As we peered inside the tunnel, we discussed its historical use as an old silver mine and we wondered some more; what’s in there now? Why did they stop using it? And are there bears in there?

The opportunities that Ferndene provides for our birth 5 years olds are endless. We learn something new every time we enter.

Keep an eye on our Facebook page for more ‘Pop Ups’ to come.

A reminder that Jessie Eberhardt is on leave for the next two weeks. Andrea Douglas will take Little Readers and Mrs Deb Lutwyche will take Playgroup.