What is Backyard in a Box?
Backyard in a Box is a nature-based program that brings together practical sustainability, creative play, and whole-child development. Each “box” is more than a kit, it’s a toolkit for transformation. Designed with early learning centres, family day care, and home-schooling families in mind, our approach makes it easy and exciting to create your own outdoor learning environment, no matter your budget or backyard size.
Each resource is backed by evidence-based educational practices and informed by years of work in both teaching and psychology. It’s a bridge between the natural world and everyday learning—offering real-world skills, emotional regulation, creativity, and a strong foundation in environmental stewardship.
About Us
From EcoPreschools to Every Backyard
Backyard in a Box was born from a deep belief in the power of nature to spark curiosity, build resilience, and nurture wellbeing. Originally developed at Eco Preschools, a pioneering early childhood service in Sydney, this program began as a grassroots response to a growing disconnect between children and the natural world.
During my time leading EcoPreschools, I witnessed how transformative hands-on outdoor experiences could be, not just for children, but for families and educators too. That’s where the idea for Backyard in a Box took root. I saw how even a modest green space could become a rich learning environment, a place for wonder, growth, and connection. I wanted to make that possibility accessible to everyone, whether you had a courtyard, a patch of grass, or just a few planter boxes.
Meet the Founder
I’m Kiri, a teacher turned psychologist with a lifelong passion for helping children and families grow in healthy, connected ways. My career began in early childhood education, where I founded EcoPreschools and developed award-winning sustainability programs. As I transitioned into psychology, I brought with me a love for nature-based learning and a keen understanding of child development.
My work blends education, psychology, and nature in ways that are accessible, practical, and deeply human. I believe when we return to what’s natural, whether that’s growing herbs, watching bugs, or simply spending time outdoors, we reconnect with something essential. That’s what Backyard in a Box is all about.