# data[].attributes.body
Murphy, J., & Kennedy, L. (2016). Welcome, by Aunty Joy Murphy AO, Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung Elder https://youtu.be/i9ta1EQJYqE

Ungunmerr, M. R. (1988). Dadirri: Inner deep listening and quiet still awareness. Miriam Rose Foundation. https://www.miriamrosefoundation.org.au/about/dadirri/

Adam Neely. (2018, May 1). What does music mean? [Video]. YouTube.  https://youtu.be/GeoDIVVP20M?si=jVX8BPQZpXIiA618

Australian Government Department of Education. (2022). Belonging, being and becoming: The early years learning framework for Australia Victoria University (2025).

Bangarra Education Resources Mutton Bird. (1) Liquid Metal Red Abstract Background video | Footage | ScreensaverScreensaver - YouTube

creative play and the natural environment https://vucollaborate.vu.edu.au/content/enforced/1783102-ECE2008-1-2023-H1B3-150037/Nature_and_Young_Children_Encouraging_Creative_Pla..._----_(Chpater_1_Children_creative_play_and_the_natural_environment)1.pdf?ou=2253578

Gandini, L. (2012). The atelier: A conversation with Vea Vecchi. C. Edwards, L. Gandini, & G. Forman (Eds.), The hundred languages of children: The Reggio Emilia experience in transformation (3rd ed., pp. 303–316). ABC-CLIO, LLC. https://ebookcentral.proquest.com/lib/vu/reader.action?docID=820317&ppg=330

ISBN: 9780313359620

# data[].attributes.body
The bird waits, still on the grass,
Wind weaving stories as the leaves dance past.
The eucalyptus breathes, ancient and wise,
Holding the sky with slow, waving sighs.

A voice in the wind, not quite my own,
Whispers of Country, soft and known.
Feet on the earth, breath in the air,
In stillness I’m listening fully aware,

that country is there.

# data[].attributes.body
During my On Country experience, I sat quietly in my backyard, letting the environment guide my senses and imagination. I was still yet mentally transported by the sound of the wind through the eucalyptus tree and a single bird sitting still on the grass. These natural elements drew me into reflection, reminding me of the Welcome to Country by Aunty Joy Murphy. It also reminded me to pause and acknowledge Country with respect and presence for the land. This experience reflects principles from the Mutten birds on how nature and story intertwine through sound and movement. It reminded me of how powerful it is to listen to the land, to be present, and to let imagination grow from sensory experiences. As an early childhood educator, I will carry this with me by creating quiet, sensory rich outdoor experiences for children. I will encourage moments of stillness, reflection, and imaginative storytelling that connects children to Country in meaningful ways.

# data[].attributes.body
Music is an art. Music can help us communicate with expressions on how we feel, it connects us beyond words. It can invoke our emotions, calm our minds, it also can be used for different purposes. like therapy, healing and stress. Music is a dynamic form of language that is not bound to semantic logic, its language is grounded in metaphor, (Neely, 2018).

When I dance, everything else fades away. It’s not just movement it's freedom. The music takes over, and my body follows without overthinking. I love how dancing lets me express what I can’t always put into words like joy, stress, excitement, even sadness. Each step, spin, or sway feels like a conversation between me and the rhythm. It’s where I feel most connected to myself.

# data[].attributes.body
I will incorporate Acknowledgement of Country regularly and use nature as a space for reflective and imaginative learning.

I will use soundscapes and natural materials in creative arts and storytelling which will allow children to build on their sensory experiences.

I will design learning environments that heighten sensory engagement, especially outdoor walks and nature play.

I will promote quiet moments for children to connect with their environment, encouraging mindfulness and reflective practices. According to Wilson R, (2007) This article explains how important it is for children to play in the natural environment. Wilson reminds us that childhood is not about getting ready for the future. She talks about unstructured play being very important for the children's development and reducing stress. Even The Atelier by Gandini, L. (2012) The hundred languages of children chapter talks about children being highly capable, confident and curious learners. As an educator, I will incorporate more nature based play into my practice. I aim to create more opportunities for nature play to support children’s development and connection to the natural world.

# data[].attributes.attachment_caption
This is a song I composed and performed.

# data[].attributes.body
Little bird, little bird, high in the tree,
Sing your song and set it free.
I heard your voice, it called to me,
And took me where I couldn’t see.