Recognition of the importance of play outdoors is a key part of the Early Years Foundation Stage, but practice can vary greatly, reflecting different understandings of the value of the outdoors in children's learning. So, why is it important for children to have long periods of uninterrupted time outside?
Outdoors is a unique environment providing opportunities for learning that are not available indoors. It offers space to move and a greater degree of freedom to try things out, to explore, investigate, imagine and create.
Children have more control outside, and they can shape the environment and transform it, rather than merely respond to it. Resources can be moved and combined, and those such as construction and water play, traditionally kept apart, can be brought together, offering new and challenging possibilities.
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