Guest blog written by Forestholidays, who share their views on the reasons to learn outdoors.
Outdoor learning is an essential part of children’s educational journeys. Whether they’re engaging in physical activities or simply given the opportunity to explore the great outdoors, learning outside of the classroom can provide so many benefits. These lessons shouldn’t be restricted to the school grounds either. Parents, carers and activity coordinators should all look to the advantages of outdoor learning to give children the best possible chance of benefiting from what it can offer.
Here are three key reasons why you should be looking to take lessons outdoors more often.
Fosters a closer relationship with nature
Even if you’re not explicitly teaching children about the environment, simply by spending time in the great outdoors with them you will be helping to foster a more intimate relationship with nature. This is crucially important for the younger generation who will continue to deal with the effects of climate change. Teaching them about the responsibility we all share of protecting our planet will help to instil good habits that they will hopefully retain and develop as they grow up and become more independent.
There are so many different outdoor activities that can help children to feel more connected to the world around them. Interacting with wildlife, doing something creative or simply playing games using their imagination can all help them tap into the benefits of being in nature.
Supports physical and mental development
Taking kids outside to play is vital for their development – both physically and mentally. Outdoor activities help children with their motor skills by increasing activity and strengthening muscles, while simultaneously providing a fun learning environment to explore. Time spent outdoors also stimulates the vestibular system, helping the body maintain balance and improving coordination of movement.
Going outside allows kids to jump, climb, crawl and run around freely, which helps develop the fundamental building blocks of physical abilities – gross motor skills like strength and endurance, but also fine motor skills like eye-hand coordination and passing objects between hands. Spending time in green areas such as parks or playgrounds can also support strong mental health foundations throughout life.
Promotes creativity
Finally, outdoor learning can be a great way to promote creativity in children. It encourages critical thinking since kids are able to explore and solve problems on their own. When partaking in outdoor learning, children have the opportunity to make discoveries first hand and interact with nature in a very meaningful way.
Additionally, they may be able to gain insight into physical environmental features that they wouldn’t normally be exposed to indoors or through screens. This helps them develop an appreciation for the outdoors, which can spark ideas for creative projects and activities that can lead to growth beyond traditional classes. Overall, outdoor learning offers a unique environment for children which can help foster their natural creativity.
Learning beyond borders
As we’ve explored, it is crucial to strike a balance between indoor and outdoor learning. Limiting children to lessons inside the classroom shuts them off from the many opportunities that could be available to them by spending more time in nature. So take the kids out there and reap the many benefits!
