Short description:

This book shows how to develop an outdoor learning environment properly for young children and how adult supporters should behave in this space.

Long description:

It is now officially acknowledged that outdoor play is extremely important for young children's development and that a few old bikes and a climbing frame just will not do. This book shows how to develop an outdoor learning environment properly for young children and how adult supporters should behave in this space.

This book offers examples of good outdoor practice in a range of early years settings. Both practical and theoretical aspects of learning outdoors are covered, tracking a shared enthusiasm for outdoor play amongst practitioners, children and parents.

The book shows how the authors set about solving common problems encountered in the outdoor area, and, using photographs, plans and written observations, the book shows how stimulating outdoor learning environments can be created.

Table of Contents:

Foreword, Acknowledgements, About the authors, Preface, Introduction, Background to the Brent Outdoor Play Project, Section 1. Outdoor Learning in Practice, 1. Deciding on the size and scope of your project, 2. Planning and resourcing outdoor play, 3. Creating the outdoor learning environment, 4. What do children learn outdoors?, 5. Barriers and solutions, 6. Benefits of outdoor play, Section 2. Forms and Checklists, Section 3. Further Ideas and Materials to Develop Outdoor Provision, Bibliography, Useful contacts, Index