Outdoor learning environments : spaces for exploration, discovery and risk-taking in the early years

Why do childhood play and learning in the outdoors matter? The short answer is because then we are less likely to destroy it. Good habits start early. With knowledge and habits established in a young generation, the outdoor paradise of the Pacific Northwest will be here for us in the future.

Nature inspires curiosity, learning, and renewal. In a time of widespread tech addictions, expanding cities such as Seattle, and changing behavior and cultural values, connecting with the outdoors contributes in unique and important ways to our health, well-being, and survival in the long run.

Outdoor Learning Environments: Spaces for Exploration, Discovery and Risk Taking In the Early Years guides educators, policy makers and community builders to developing positive and engaging outdoor learning environments for children. Editors Helen Little, Sue Elliott and Shirley Wyver, as well as other authors, researchers and practitioners, present a range of ideas drawn from contemporary education theories, research and practice. Australia is the location of the publication, but it could be anywhere in the world.

The book highlights how educators interweave learning and the environment, beyond management-style supervision. Positive approaches to risk-taking are considered, with risk-taking defined as events, behaviors and consequences that are associated with some degree of uncertainty about the outcomes. Designing and planning for outdoor learning are included in a way that incorporates children’s voices and cultural perspectives. Education for sustaining a healthy environment is explored. The editors, at the same time, address the issue of ensuring that outdoor spaces and equipment align with relevant regulations and safety requirements.

Outdoor Learning Environments opens minds of children and caring adults to the wonders and realities of our environment and to working collaboratively toward sustainable futures with wisdom and heart.

Excerpted from the October 2019 Leaflet Volume 6, Issue 10.