Outdoor learning
Playing outside provides opportunities for children to use all their senses, to experience wonder and enchantment, to work on a larger scale and to enjoy a greater sense of freedom and independence.
Outdoor play is a natural enhancement and extension of indoor environments and ideally children should be able to choose to play outside at any time: there should be a flow of play between inside and outside.
Arguably, outdoor play has more to offer children than indoor activities, and we should not therefore parcel it up as a short interval in the real business of the day. It should be a vital part of the real business of the day - every day.
Outdoor play and Curriculum for Excellence
There are many ways to provide children with enriching outdoor experiences as an extension and enhancement of indoor play. All aspects of the Curriculum Framework for Children 3 to 5 and the four capacities within Curriculum for Excellence can be promoted successfully outdoors.
Creating outdoor play environments
There is enormous variation in the provision of outdoor play space. One nursery class may have a fenced-off section of a school playground, while another nursery may have soft surface areas, flower and plant beds, mature trees, and various levels of play space as a result of the natural landscape.
Inevitably this will influence the range of activities and experiences that can be provided. However, commitment, determination, imagination and creativity - from children, staff and parents - can turn even the most uninspiring area into a rich place for children to explore and enjoy.
Some nurseries may have no outdoor space available at all. They have an interesting and exciting challenge: to find other opportunities and places nearby to give children opportunities to play outside.
See our advice on developing your outdoor area.
Grounds for Learning
Grounds for Learning is the Scottish school and early year grounds charity, providing training, advice and resources to early years practitioners to help them make the most of their outdoor space. the site contains helpful case studies, practitioner resources and details of GfL's dedicated early years support service.
Find inspiration
Case studies on Early Years Online show how some centres are taking learning outdoors.