Outdoor activities offer a variety of benefits from physical development to improved social skills and creativity. Below are seven of the most important reasons why outdoor education is so important for kids.
1) Children engage actively with their learning
Being out in nature allows children to engage in activities that don't require them to sit at a desk or be confined to one room. Instead, they can explore, play games, and engage in hands-on learning.
2) Children develop teamwork skills
Through cooperative games and activities, children learn how to work together to reach a common goal. These activities also help kids to practice problem-solving, communication, and collaboration.
3) Children build fine and gross motor skills
Outdoor learning encourages kids to explore their environment, interact with the world, and engage in physical activity. Through physical play, kids can practice skills such as balancing, jumping, throwing, catching and using tools, which all improve fine and gross motor skills.
4) It helps to reduce screen time
Learning outside reduces time spent indoors on screens, encouraging kids to interact socially and engage in physical activities. Research has shown that less screen time can lead to improved physical health, mental well-being, and enhanced academic performance.
5) It allows kids to explore their creativity
Outdoor education gives kids freedom to explore their creativity. Learning outside helps children to use their imagination and become more creative with the resources around them. Kids are often limited in a classroom setting, and when they are outside in nature they are able to see things differently, explore and come up with unique ideas.
6) It helps kids to develop an appreciation for nature
By exploring nature, children become aware of their connection with the natural world and can appreciate the beauty and complexity of the environment. Experiences in outdoor settings can increase a child’s respect for nature as they explore how animals, plants, and the environment interact, and begin to understand how their actions can affect the natural world.
7) It's just plain fun!
From making mud pies, playing hopscotch and hunting for insects in the garden, being outdoors provides plenty of opportunities for children to explore and discover in a safe and fun way. If you want to make learning fun for your children, just take them outdoors using our Nature at Play cards!
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