Hello world!

Play is often underestimated in its importance and can be lost in our scheduled and busy lives. Play is how children process events, build friendships and develop a sense of self. It continues past the preschool years and right through adolescence. It is the antidote to anxiety and isolation.

Muddy Kids advocates for the critical role of play in learning and development. The rise in anxiety and social skill challenges among children, exacerbated by our digital lives, underscores the need for spaces where kids can just be kids. We hold this space at Muddy Kids.

Playing in Long Bay Regional Park, Muddy Kids offers One Day Programmes during school, Holiday Play Days on term breaks, and overnight Muddy Camps around Auckland, all designed to give kids the childhood we remember with unstructured play and outdoor exploration.

At Muddy Kids, the children democratically plan their day and make their own fun without dictation by adults. We are there to ensure safety and support them through disagreements and decisions but aim to remain as hands off as possible. Our low ratios and experienced staff mean we can take the time to build trust and let them be as independent and creative as possible. When trusted, children are more capable than we can imagine. Even when the choices they make may not be optimal, we can let them learn through experiencing the consequences of their choices building their resilience and self confidence.

With unstructured days, encouraging fidgety bodies to move, Muddy Kids aims to address the needs of all our tamariki. Being outdoors in all weather builds resilience, a connection with nature physical fitness and a calmer mind. We emphasize community, the freedom to make mistakes, take risks and create lifelong friendships.

At Muddy Kids play is not just an activity, but a foundation for a well-rounded childhood and a resilient adult. Through our programs, we aim to counter excessive screen time and increased anxiety, promoting a healthier, happier future for children. Muddy Kids is a place where children can discover who they are, before they are told who to be.