Gumbeats

Gumbeats brings nature and music together in a relaxed outdoor playgroup for babies, toddlers and children aged 0–6. Music is part of every session, with instruments, original songs for littlies and bigger kids, and plenty of rhythm alongside the mud and sticks. Children of different ages join in together, watching, helping and learning from one another. It is not a class so much as a small community.

​

There is some structure to each session, but plenty of room to wander too. Activities follow the children’s pace, interests and confidence on the day, with facilitated play sitting alongside unstructured exploration. Part of Gumbeats is also about getting comfortable outside in different conditions, so sessions go ahead in most weather. We have a tarp for shelter, a WhatsApp group for real-time updates, and a backup spot near the playground shelter for music-only sessions if things get too wild. Only genuinely extreme weather means we cancel.

​

Gumbeats runs at Gilpin Park in Brunswick West, away from the playground and dog park, with the exact meeting point shared after sign-up. Sessions are on Fridays from 10am to midday during term time and are capped at 15 families. The group is for babies, toddlers and children aged 0–6, together with their grown-ups.

​

The site is accessible by pram and wheelchair, although there is some uneven natural ground. Public toilets are nearby, street parking is available, and the 506 and 508 buses stop close by. Families should bring their own snacks, gumboots, and a rain jacket or rain suit if they have one, and come prepared for wet weather and messy play.