Physically
Children have the space and freedom to move and run, develop their gross and fine motor skills and stamina. Physical activity outdoors helps prevent against obesity, increases bone density, helps develop balance and provides the body with vitamin D when the sun shines. Children will hopefully grow up healthier because of this.
Developing resilience
The natural environment isn’t always ‘ideal’ so children have to adapt their ideas and behaviour to manage with what ‘is’ rather than what they would like it to be. Things don’t always go as planned but because the activities are fun and meaningful, the children generally want to keep trying. This helps develop that ‘can do’ attitude that is so important in being successful in life.
Enhancing confidence and self esteem
The children have the freedom, time and space to learn and demonstrate independence. When they manage to do something that is tricky such as making charcoal on a fire, helping the natural world or making a shelter that stands upright, it boosts confidence and self-esteem.
Social skills
Whilst playing and working outside, communication, team building and language skills are developed. The children are encouraged to look after each other in an ever-changing environment.
Risk management
Life is risky and it is only by learning to see and manage risk that children develop this important skill. Outside the children are supported to manage acceptable levels of risk in a safer environment.
Behaviour
Being outside has a calming influence on the brain. Research has repeatedly shown that children’s behaviour is improved outdoors and then back in the classroom
Communication
Our natural outdoor area provides multi-sensory experiences and this helps to develop children’s language and provides a rich source of material to include in their writing back in the classroom.
Natural environment
Children learn to appreciate, respect and care for their environment and will hopefully continue to look after their world in the future.
