Why Wild Gully Has Zero Behaviour Incidents
In my previous life, I spent countless hours logging every single behaviour incident—hours dedicated to documenting problems, not addressing the child's needs—focused on consequences rather than solutions. Oh, how the tides have turned.
At Wild Gully, we pride ourselves on having zero behaviour incidents during our nature play sessions. This isn’t because we’re lucky—it’s because we’re intentional. Every aspect of our approach is designed to meet children where they are, respecting their needs and empowering them to thrive.
We Set Children Up for Success
From the moment they arrive, children know what to expect. We use clear communication to set boundaries, but we don’t stop there. We provide autonomy, allowing children to choose how and where they play within safe limits. We know that movement is critical for regulation and development. As Angela Hanscom, author of Balanced and Barefoot, says:
"Children are meant to move. Their brains are designed to develop through exploration and active play, not through sitting still."
A Holistic, Research-Based Approach
Everything we do is informed by research. Play is not just an activity; it’s a holistic approach that nurtures the body, mind, and spirit. The United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child emphasises that play is a fundamental right for all children, essential for their development and well-being. Yet, in many traditional settings, this right and indeed this need, is overlooked.
Why Do Behaviour Incidents Happen?
Most behaviours stem from unmet needs, sensory overload, or a lack of autonomy. Nature inherently meets many of these needs. Wide open spaces, fresh air, and opportunities to climb, dig, or explore allow children to regulate themselves. Instead of reacting to “problem behaviours,” we ask: What does this child need right now?
So, Why Aren’t All Institutions Using This Research?
The research is clear, yet many schools and programs rely on rigid structures that stifle movement, play, and autonomy. Why is this? Could it be fear of letting go of control, or simply a lack of understanding about the importance of play? I wonder why more institutions don’t adopt these proven strategies. Or is it lack of understanding of childhood development?
Dr. Peter Gray, a research professor and expert on play, emphasises that the decline of play in schools is directly linked to rising anxiety, depression, and lack of resilience in children, highlighting that play is essential for learning, problem-solving, and emotional well-being. In his famous book he wrote, Free to Learn it clearly states why he has predicted why we are in the state we currently are. This is a must read.
10 Questions to Ask Before Enrolling Your Child
When considering a new school or program for your child, here are ten crucial questions to ask:
Do you value play in the early years?
What opportunities does my child have for free, unstructured play? (remembering that research states that it takes 45 minutes for a child to be fully immersed into the deep flow of play and this is when the real learning begins and children need a minimum of 3 hours outdoors of unstructured play per day to develop holistically).
How do you support childhood development through play?
What is your stance on structed play versus child-led play?
How can my child exercise autonomy here?
How often do children move during the day?
What is your approach to outdoor learning and nature-based activities?
How do you manage “behaviours”?
Do you believe all children are capable and competent learners?
How do you support sensory regulation and emotional well-being?
By asking these questions, you can ensure your child is in an environment that truly supports their growth and development. At Wild Gully, we are proud to lead by example, fostering confident, capable children through the power of play and nature.
Ready to See the Difference?
Come and join one of our sessions to experience what zero behaviour incidents look like—because when children are given the right opportunities, they truly thrive.
