Outdoor learning is very beneficial to children’s overall development. This is because the fresh air and sunlight impact mood and energy levels to improve overall focus. Additionally, outdoor lessons can revitalise learning, bringing students outside into a new environment has even been seen to improve memory. This is because memory is context-dependent, meaning that information learned in an unfamiliar setting is often remembered more clearly.
This blog explores why schools should embrace outdoor learning but also gives you advice on ways to encourage it…
Setting up Dedicated Reading Areas
With all the distractions of day to day life, sitting down and reading can be tough. This is especially true for children. Setting up a playground reading area provides children with a place to escape to and enjoy reading without distraction.
In a quiet corner of the playground, a circle of seating cubes, or a storytelling chair can become a haven for children to sit and relax with a good book. By setting up a reading area on the playground, children who enjoy reading or are learning to read can have a safe place to do so. Meanwhile, they are also experiencing the benefits of fresh air, nature, and sunshine.
Reading can be an independent or social activity. Portable seating cubes give student the freedom to set up their own reading groups or find a space for quiet reading alone in a hobbit house den. Each child learns and enjoys reading in their own unique way at their own pace. Therefore, schools should provide a variety of places and spaces for children to engage their minds however they wish.
Playgrounds with Outdoor Learning Opportunities
Passive learning often goes overlooked as an opportunity for learning in early years education. This is the natural development of knowledge and understanding that comes about through everyday interactions. This can include direct or indirect engagement with letters, numbers, and other parts of the curriculum through play.
Therefore, we strongly recommend introducing a wide range of learning opportunities to playgrounds and ensuring they are attractive and exciting to young children. Colourful playground markings with fun games or friendly characters can encourage students to engage with phonics, numbers, and other learning opportunities. Educational play panels challenge children to practice their learning with interactive activities that tactile learners are more likely to engage with. Or, with alphabet or number line play markings, children can incorporate learning into physical games, associating the endorphin rush that comes from exercise with learning!
Allowing for Free Creative Play
Whiteboard, chalkboard, and painting stations give children the opportunity to write and draw whatever they want. Allowing children to practice their letters in their own time and erasing each time on the dry-wipe board helps them build muscle memory and confidence in their writing abilities.
Children should have the ability to express themselves through creativity and art when they need. After a long day of learning in the classroom, children require an outlet for their energy, and art and mark-making equipment can provide this. Whether they feel like writing, drawing, or playing word games with friends, this is a healthy way for children to develop independence and confidence.
Top Reading Area Equipment to Enhance Outdoor Learning
Does your school need to add outdoor reading features to its playground? Check out the freestanding storytelling and reading equipment in our shop to find your options.
