There are seven key play themes that emerge when children have access to safe, free time in nature, according to teacher and educator David Sobel, who has been an advocate for children and nature for over 50 years. Through his observations of children across the globe, he discovered that regardless of race, culture or ethnicity, children in ‘woodsy playgrounds’ will make forts and special places, play hunting and gathering games, shape small worlds, develop friendships with animals, construct adventures, descend into fantasies, follow paths and find shortcuts.
Settings can use these principles to design high-quality outdoor play places using loose parts, den-building materials, natural resources to create miniature worlds and mark-making.
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
Already have an account? Sign in here
