Early childhood educator Helen Walsh is relishing a chance to instil a love of nature in a young girl whose father she taught almost 30 years ago.
in his daughter Ayla.
Ky Kosta, 32, who grew up to be a horticulturist running his own business Life Landscapes, said a love of outdoor learning he experienced as a youngster at Tewantin Community Kindergarten never left him.
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“As a parent you want your child to develop to their absolute full potential – and I wanted my daughter to be able to develop interests and imagination in the same beautiful natural surroundings as I did,” Mr Kosta said.
“I remember I loved the nature-based outdoor play aspect of kindy, and the freedom I was given to discover.”
Ky said four-year-old Ayla loved playing in the dirt, water and sand and really exploring her surroundings.
Ms Walsh, who has more than 30 years experience at Tewantin, said it was rewarding having the next generations coming through.
She said it was also handy because Mr Kosta had been volunteering his skills to returf the grounds and landscape.
“It just shows the parents have fond memories, so they want that for their children,” she said.
“Ayla obviously comes when he’s working on the weekend.
The not-for-profit kindergarten has focused on providing unique spaces which encourage play at its tranquil setting beside Lake Doonella since 1965.
“Through play children learn about themselves, about others and the world around them,” Ms Walsh said.
“Whether it’s time in the garden, creating artwork or reading, the children’s’ experiences are varied and exciting for them.”