The Role of Outdoor Play in Early Development
Children are natural explorers, and there’s no better setting for discovery than the great outdoors. Outdoor play isn’t just a chance for children to burn off energy; it’s a vital part of early development that supports physical health, emotional well-being, and cognitive growth. Spending time outside means children engage with nature in meaningful ways, and at Green Leaves Early Learning, outdoor experiences are woven into our curriculum, enriching each child’s learning journey.
In this blog, we’re diving into the benefits of spending time outdoors, how nature supports your child’s development, and the types of outdoor activities we include in our curriculum. Before we dive into it, you can catch our highlights video below and see how outdoor play comes to life across our centres. From nature-based exploration and group games to quiet moments in the garden, see how our thoughtfully designed outdoor spaces support learning, creativity, and connection.
The benefits of spending time outdoors
Outdoor environments offer a unique blend of freedom, challenge, and sensory richness that indoor settings can’t always provide. Whether it’s climbing, running, building, or role-playing, outdoor play helps children:
- Develop strong motor skills
- Build resilience and confidence
- Improve focus and self-regulation
- Strengthen social and emotional connections
Regular outdoor time also supports healthy sleep patterns and boosts immunity, which are essential for growing minds and bodies.
How nature supports child development
Nature sparks curiosity. Children naturally wonder why leaves change colour, how bugs move, or what happens when water meets dirt. These moments are powerful learning opportunities. Interacting with the natural world encourages problem-solving, creativity, and early scientific thinking.
Being surrounded by natural elements like trees, grass, water, sunlight also provides a calming effect. This helps children develop emotional regulation skills and supports mental well-being from a young age.
Outdoor activities in our curriculum
Outdoor play isn’t an add-on at our Centres, it’s an essential part of our daily rhythm. Our learning programs incorporate both structured and spontaneous outdoor activities aligned with the Early Years Learning Framework.
Children might:
- Explore sustainability through gardening and composting
- Experiment with water and sand in sensory play
- Create with natural loose parts like sticks, leaves, and stones
- Join group games that promote teamwork and cooperation
- Observe seasonal changes and local wildlife
Each of our Centres features purposefully designed outdoor spaces that encourage exploration, challenge, and imagination. Educators thoughtfully plan experiences that build on children’s interests while supporting their individual development.
More than just play
Whether it’s a morning digging adventure in the sandpit, building cubbies from branches, or a quiet moment under a shady tree, outdoor time offers children the freedom to learn, grow, and thrive.
At Green Leaves Early Learning, we believe the outdoors is one of the richest classrooms there is and a space where children connect with themselves, each other, and the world around them. Come and see how our centres bring the outdoors into everyday life. Find your nearest centre to explore our beautiful learning environments and discover the Green Leaves Difference.
