We organise different outdoor events throughout the week. On Wellyboot Wednesday we visit the school garden for digging, playing in the willow dome, 'fishing' in the burn with sticks, and bug hunts. We walk to the local swing park on Fun Friday and play on the equipment. The other days are spent in our play area.
Like Jacqui, we have a vast array of physical equipment which we rotate. We also try to provide the following opportunities outdoors: climbing and balancing, digging and investigating, gardening and nature, construction, creative areas, space for wheeled toys, places to hide, sand and water play, transporting materials , imaginative and role play, collecting and sorting, recording, reading, technology, caring and sensory experiences.
Many of these activities are low in cost and use natural materials.
Autumn is super for collecting and sorting leaves and seeds. Recording is easily done using chalk to mark the distance beanbags are thrown or how far children can jump.
A favourite activity is being 'traffic warden' with a book and pen and giving other children tickets for parking in the wrong place!
We really enjoy being outside with the children, who love the opportunity to play in all weathers. The children have been disappointed that we haven't had any snow, as they were looking forward to making snowmen and throwing snowballs (at the staff, of course!).
* Julie Irving, nursery nurse, Dalry Nursery Class,Dumfries and Galloway
