Description
Book SynopsisOutdoor play is a significant and essential aspect of a young child's development and enjoys a renewed emphasis in early years practice, in keeping with the core principles embedded within the early years tradition. However, this emphasis may sit uneasily alongside a requirement to focus on the development of literacy and numeracy skills and supporting outdoor play can raise a number of thorny issues such as freedom, safety and risk.
This book challenges the reader to consider:
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Why outdoor play is seen to be of significance within early childhood
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Whether this view is justified (what are the benefits of outdoor play?)
- The implications for practitioners who may be facing conflicting pressures in their work with young children
In particular, the writers skilfully blend theory, research and practical guidance to address three important issues:
- What constitutes 'good' outdoor provision for young children and babies?
- How do we respect and
Table of Contents
ContributorsIntroduction: Outdoor play in Early Years settings
Section One: The case for outdoor play
Outdoor play and the Early Years tradition
What makes a good outdoor environment for young children?
Exploring appropriate outdoor provision for babies and toddlers
Section Two: Policy and practice in the UK
Supporting child-initiated activity in the outdoor environment
Risky outdoor play: embracing uncertainty in pursuit of learning
Working with forest schools
Getting the most out of outdoor spaces
Section Three: International perspectives
Early Years outdoor play in Scandinavia
Outdoor play in New Zealand centres: protecting, defending, extending
Outdoor play in Australia
Index
