Outdoor Play
The outdoor environment is rich, dynamic and anatural space for learning and development in children of all ages. Much research has taken place on the health benefits and the learning opportunities that children get when experiencing high quality outdoor provision.
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The EYFS states:
- ‘Being outdoors has a positive impact on children's sense of well-being and helps all aspects of children's development.
- Being outdoors offers opportunities for doing things in different ways and on different scales than when indoors.
- It gives children first-hand contact with weather, seasons and the natural world.
- Outdoor environments offer children freedom to explore, use their senses, and be physically active and exuberant.’
We have recently revamped our outdoor garden areas to ensure that we provide a stimulating, fun environment that children will want to access. It is proven that outdoor learning is most effective when children are able to access both the indoor and outdoor space this is why we have free flow provision so that the children can choose where to play.
Much research is available that indicates that being and playing outside is vital for children's physical health and development, emotional well-being and promotes cognitive development and achievement. 'The knowledge base shows that exposure to natural spaces - everything from parks and open countryside to gardens and other greenspace - is good for health.' (Sustainable Development Commission 2008).
