News

Obstacle course

Many early years practitioners take children outdoors less often than they could. But as the benefits outweigh the disadvantages, they can find ways around any barriers Research indicates that too few children are being given enough learning opportunities outdoors in early years settings even when they have access to a suitable outdoor area. To change the way they use the outdoors, early years settings need to first change their attitude towards it.

Research indicates that too few children are being given enough learning opportunities outdoors in early years settings even when they have access to a suitable outdoor area. To change the way they use the outdoors, early years settings need to first change their attitude towards it.

To establish why you don't make good use of the outdoors, ask yourself some searching questions. Are you afraid of outdoor play? Are you afraid that:

* there are too few members of staff to supervise adequately?

* the whole curriculum cannot be covered outdoors and so learning inside is 'better' than learning outside?

Register now to continue reading

Thank you for visiting Nursery World and making use of our archive of more than 35,000 expert features, subject guides, case studies and policy updates. Why not register today and enjoy the following great benefits:

What's included

  • Free access to 4 subscriber-only articles per month

  • Unlimited access to news and opinion

  • Email newsletter providing activity ideas, best practice and breaking news

Register

Already have an account? Sign in here