In early childhood education, we often talk about fostering a sense of belonging and connection to the land. One of the most impactful ways we can do this is by growing native plants and creating green corridors that support local wildlife. Green corridors—continuous patches of native vegetation—help native animals move freely between habitats, supporting biodiversity and strengthening ecosystems.
For the past six years, my family has been cultivating a bush tucker garden on the Central Coast, focusing on plants endemic to our area and those used by the Darkinjung people as seasonal indicators. This journey has transformed not only our backyard but also our understanding of local ecosystems, Aboriginal knowledge, and the interconnectedness of all living things.
Why Native Plants Matter
Growing native plants benefits both the environment and our communities. Native gardens:
- Provide food and shelter for local wildlife – Since establishing our bush tucker garden, we have seen an increase in birds like black cockatoos, kookaburras, rainbow lorikeets, wattlebirds, and even the occasional swamp wallaby venturing down from the bush block behind our home.
- Support pollinators – Bees, butterflies, and other insects thrive in native gardens, helping plants reproduce and strengthening the entire ecosystem. Our native beehive has flourished, playing a crucial role in our garden’s success.
- Require less water and maintenance – Native plants are adapted to local conditions, making them more resilient and less reliant on artificial irrigation.
- Promote cultural learning – Aboriginal peoples have used these plants for thousands of years for food, medicine, and seasonal tracking. Embedding these perspectives in early childhood education fosters deeper respect for First Nations knowledge.
Simple Steps to Start a Native Garden in Early Learning Settings
Creating a native garden doesn’t have to be complicated. Here’s how early childhood educators can get started:
Research Local Native Plants
Find out which plants are endemic to your area and which are significant to local Aboriginal groups. On the Central Coast, we planted native rosemary, mint, basil, sea celery, saltbush, Davidson plums, warrigal greens, wattle, and lilly pillies. These plants not only provide food for wildlife but also opportunities for children to learn about bush tucker and sustainability.
Create Habitats for Wildlife
Encourage biodiversity by providing water sources, hollow logs for lizards, and native bee habitats. We intentionally leave out water for insects and birds, and over time, we’ve seen more lizards, cicadas, spiders, and even the occasional snake making their home in our garden.
Let Nature Take the Lead
Avoid over-maintaining your garden. Native plants thrive when they are allowed to follow natural cycles. We found that our plants were slow-growing at first, but after a few years, they established themselves beautifully.
Harvest and Use Bush Foods
Once your garden is established, involve children in harvesting and using native foods. In our home, we make warrigal green pesto and frittatas, lilly pilly muffins, Davidson plum duck sauce, wattle seed hot chocolate, and lemon myrtle cheesecake. Cooking with bush foods introduces children to native flavors and teaches them about sustainable food sources.
Observe, Learn, and Reflect
A native garden is a living, breathing classroom. Educators can engage children in nature journaling, seasonal observations, and discussions about how Aboriginal peoples have long understood the land through deep observation and care.
The Bigger Picture: Supporting Green Corridors
By planting natives in early learning settings, we are not just beautifying our spaces—we are actively restoring ecosystems and providing safe passage for wildlife. As urban expansion threatens natural habitats, even small patches of native vegetation can make a huge difference.
Imagine if every early learning service dedicated a space to a native garden—together, we could help create a network of green corridors that support biodiversity, provide hands-on learning experiences, and deepen children’s connection to Country.
Growing a native garden is about more than just plants—it’s about fostering respect for the land, embedding Aboriginal perspectives in our everyday practices, and giving children the opportunity to witness the magic of nature up close. Whether you have a small courtyard or a large outdoor space, every effort counts in creating a healthier, more connected environment.
By planting with purpose, we not only nurture the earth—we nurture future generations who will grow up with a stronger sense of responsibility and wonder for the natural world.
