Outdoor Learning and Nature Play
Outdoor Learning and Nature Play at Blackfriars
‘Time kids spend outdoors in nature play has been steadily declining for decades and it’s costing children enormously when it comes to their physical and mental health’
At Blackfriars we want all our children to experience the many benefits of playing outdoors and in nature. We are lucky to have our Enchanted Forest, vegetable plots and sensory garden, as well as our playgrounds, pitch and Astroturf, to offer a variety of outdoor and natural environments.
There is a wealth of international research on the benefits of outdoor and nature play. These include:
Physical benefits:
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Promotes muscle development and lowers blood pressure
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Reduces risk of bone disease and heart disease
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Decreases rates of obesity
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Improves nutrition and eyesight
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Provides sensory stimuli
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Improves range of movement, coordination, balance and agility
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Increases energy levels and vitamin D levels
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Strengthens immune system
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Mental and Emotional benefits:
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Improves cognition, focus and thinking in ever-changing circumstances.
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Builds independence, confidence and self-esteem
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Promotes discovery and experimentation.
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Stimulates senses
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Bolsters resilience against stress and challenge.
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Builds mindfulness skills
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Increases positive mood and decreases anxiety and anger.
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Improves self-regulation and responsibility and encourages healthy risk taking
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Character development:
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Increases appreciation for and respect for the environment, and a desire to protect it.
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Improves social skills and communication
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Builds imagination and creativity, as play is not as directed and not dependent on structured resources.
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Develops empathy and kindness for all living things.
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Creates opportunities for awe and wonder, which builds a foundation for lifelong curiosity and learning.
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Promotes a deeper, more spiritual understanding of the world through connecting with nature.
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Develops critical thinking and problem solving skills
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Increases life satisfaction and fulfilment.
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What outdoor, nature play looks like at Blackfriars:
Follows our Outdoor Learning Code.
Is timetabled, but also responsive to weather, seasons and needs of the children.
Is suitably risk-assessed – with pupils being involved in risk-assessment where appropriate. .
Happens regularly to allow for development of skills and observation of the changing seasons.
Encourages children to use the natural resources available but may involve other resources e.g. magnifying glasses, den equipment, loose parts, gardening equipment etc. Resources can be found in our Outdoor Resource Areas.
Involves a mix of structured activities with defined success criteria, and free, child-led play.
Has a balance of independent and cooperative activities.
Introduces and reviews the session, looking at success criteria and/or encouraging sharing of experiences and learning.
References and further reading: https://www.whitehutchinson.com/children/articles/benefits.shtml