Importance of active outdoor learning for nurseries

The importance of active outdoor learning has gained significant recognition in the early years and childcare sector. As nurseries strive to provide holistic development for children, incorporating outdoor activities into their daily routines has become essential.

In this blog, Anna Nova Galeon will delve into the significance of active outdoor learning, highlighting key facts and statistics, defining relevant terms, and offering best practices for implementing legislation and regulations. We aim to educate practitioners on the benefits and provide actionable recommendations to enhance their outdoor learning programmes. outdoor learning programmes.

Key facts and statistics

According to the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) framework, outdoor learning is crucial for children's physical development and overall well-being.
Research by the Natural Learning Initiative indicates that children who engage in regular outdoor play exhibit improved cognitive, social, and emotional development.
A study by the University of Exeter found that children who spend time outdoors have better concentration and behaviour in the classroom.
The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) emphasises the importance of managing risks in outdoor learning environments to ensure children's safety.

Key definitions

Active outdoor learning - A pedagogical approach that involves engaging children in physical activities and play in natural or outdoor settings. It promotes physical health, social skills, and cognitive development.

Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) - A statutory framework in the UK that sets standards for the learning, development, and care of children from birth to age five.

Health and Safety Executive (HSE) - A UK government agency responsible for regulating and enforcing workplace health, safety, and welfare, including in early years settings.

Recommended best practices for implementation

Understanding the legislation

The EYFS framework mandates that early years providers must ensure children have daily access to outdoor play. This requirement is rooted in recognising that outdoor learning environments offer unique opportunities for children to explore, take risks, and develop crucial life skills.

Key points from the EYFS framework

Providers must plan for and provide outdoor activities to promote physical development.
Risk assessments must be conducted regularly to ensure the safety of outdoor spaces.
Staff should be trained to handle potential emergencies effectively in first aid and risk management.

Creating a safe and stimulating outdoor environment

To implement effective active outdoor learning, nurseries must create safe, stimulating environments that encourage exploration and play. This involves careful planning and adherence to health and safety guidelines.

Steps to create an effective outdoor learning environment

Conduct thorough risk assessments - Regularly assess outdoor areas to identify and mitigate potential hazards.
Design engaging outdoor spaces - Incorporate natural elements such as plants, sand, and water to stimulate children's senses and curiosity.
Provide appropriate equipment - Ensure outdoor play equipment is safe, age-appropriate, and well-maintained.
Train staff - Equip staff with the necessary skills and knowledge to supervise outdoor activities and manage risks effectively.

Integrating outdoor learning into the curriculum

Integrating outdoor learning into the early years curriculum enhances children's learning experiences and supports their overall development. This requires thoughtful planning and a commitment to making outdoor activities integral to daily routines.

Strategies for curriculum integration

Thematic planning - Align outdoor activities with curriculum themes to reinforce learning objectives.
Flexible timetables - Allocate specific times for outdoor play, allowing children to engage in unstructured and structured activities.
Observation and Assessment - Use outdoor learning opportunities to observe children's development and assess their progress in various areas.

Recommendations

To maximise the benefits of active outdoor learning, nurseries should adopt the following recommendations:

Invest in professional development - Provide ongoing training for staff on the importance of outdoor learning and best practices for implementation.
Engage families - Educate parents on the benefits of outdoor learning and encourage their involvement in outdoor activities.
Utilise technology - Leverage software solutions like ComplyPlus™ to manage compliance with legislation and streamline training for staff.

Conclusion

Active outdoor learning is vital to early childhood education, offering numerous benefits for children's physical, cognitive, and emotional development. By understanding the legislative requirements, creating safe outdoor environments, and integrating outdoor learning into the curriculum, nurseries can provide enriching experiences that support holistic development.

For more information on effectively implementing active outdoor learning and ensuring compliance with relevant legislation, visit The Mandatory Training Group's website and explore our ComplyPlus™ software and training solutions. Empower your nursery with the tools and knowledge to foster a thriving outdoor learning environment.

Enhance your nursery's outdoor learning programme and ensure compliance with the latest regulations. Visit The Mandatory Training Group and discover how ComplyPlus™ can support your journey towards excellence in early years education.

About the author

Anna Nova Galeon

Anna, our wordsmith extraordinaire, plays a pivotal role in quality assurance. She collaborates seamlessly with subject matter experts and marketers to meet stringent quality standards. Her linguistic precision and meticulous attention to detail elevate our content, ensuring prominence, clarity, and alignment with global quality benchmarks.