Playing outdoors is not only fun for children but also forms a very powerful learning experience. Outdoor learning and nature play offer many benefits that help in the holistic development of any child.
What is Nature Play Learning?
Notably, nature play learning incorporates activities where children engage in the natural environment. It is confined to unstructured play in outdoor settings that allows kids the facility to wander and explore in a self-driven process of discovery and learning through direct exposure to nature.
Benefits of Outdoor Learning and Nature Play
Physical Benefits Outdoor play enables children to develop gross motor skills through running, jumping, and climbing activities. It helps to build good physical health through the development of regular exercise habits, building up muscular strength, and enhancing cardiovascular fitness.
Social Benefits Outdoor play offers social interaction and learning of teamwork. The children develop communication, sharing, and cooperation with others—vital social skills. While playing outdoors, children learn to know and respect their boundaries and rules.
Emotional Benefits Nature play reduces stress and anxiety, promoting emotional well-being. It boosts self-esteem and confidence as children overcome physical challenges and explore new environments. Additionally, being outdoors can enhance mood and overall happiness.
Dr Swati Vats emphasises the importance of outdoor play in one of her parenting prep sessions. She notes that while we often picture gardens and open spaces, it’s crucial to adapt when such spaces aren’t available. At Podar Prep, we ensure all necessary outdoor activities can happen in indoor play areas when needed.
According to Dr. Vats, outdoor play is essential for the all-round development of a child. This is not only the development of fine motor skills but the cross-motor development of the whole body. Slides, swings, and jungle gyms are needed not only for exercise but for learning balance and coordination. Outdoor play teaches kids about bodies, how to move fast, how to play with others, and how to share. It also instils patience, perseverance, and pleasure—children learn to wait for their turn, make the effort to climb, and enjoy the ride down.
Moreover, outdoor play provides opportunities to voice oneself, something that is impossible in any class. All the laughter, giggles, and shouting that happen during an outdoor play are significant and inimitable expressions of a joyful and free life.
Tips for Parents to Encourage Outdoor Learning
- Create Opportunities: Set aside regular time for outdoor activities.
- Be a Role Model: Show enthusiasm for nature by participating in outdoor activities with your child.
- Use Natural Materials: Incorporate items like leaves, sticks, and stones into play to stimulate creativity.
- Explore Different Environments: Visit parks, nature reserves, and gardens to expose your child to various natural settings.
Outdoor Activities for Different Age Groups
- Toddlers: Simple activities like playing in the sand, water play, or a nature walk.
- Preschoolers: Activities such as scavenger hunts, gardening, or playing on playground equipment.
- School-aged Children: More complex activities like hiking, sports, or building forts.
Conclusion
Outdoor learning and nature play form an important part of the growth of a child. By understanding the importance of it, and by provoking it, parents can support the child’s development in terms of physical, social, and emotional parts. A variety of activities and opportunities make outdoor play an enjoyable part of childhood, forming an affinity with nature to lifelong learning.
At Podar Prep, outdoor learning comes first with ample playtime in nature integrated into the curriculum. Outdoor and indoor, carefully designed play areas ensure that each child experiences the joys and benefits of outdoor play, even in space-constrained conditions. Join us at Podar Prep for the best start, and give your child our holistic approach to learning.
Ready to nurture your child’s growth with the power of outdoor play? Enrol at Podar Prep today!
