Providing children with opportunities to learn both inside a classroom and outside in the playground, garden or other location, they are able to understand that learning can happen anywhere; that there is a wealth of knowledge just waiting for them to uncover. Without such experiences, they may feel that learning only occurs when opening a textbook, which is obviously an incorrect assumption.
We have homeschooled our children for well over 6 years now and the outdoors plays a huge part in our home education journey.
I have teamed up with an independent school in Surrey to explore the benefits of outdoor learning in further detail below.
First of all, outdoor learning encourages inquisitive thinking. Curious children who ask lots of questions are able to absorb more information, because they are always speculating about things. If they are only exposed to a limited learning environment, such as a classroom, their curious minds will lose momentum, which is why outdoor learning is so great. They will be able to ask questions about animals, plants, bugs, and other aspects of nature that aren’t available to them indoors. Outdoor learning also provides children with an opportunity to assess and take risks. Identifying hazards is an important part of their development, and something which they are not really able to do when sat at a desk.
Of course, outdoor learning is also a great way for children to develop a sense of respect for the environment and a life-long love of the great outdoors. What’s more, it is a chance for them to build upon their fine motor skills and increases their physical and mental health. This holistic approach to learning is something that schools are trying to incorporate more into their curriculums.
Parents should also find opportunities for their youngsters to learn and play outdoors. It’s wise to encourage them to put down their technology and get some fresh air and exercise. Perhaps you can plant your own vegetable patch together or build a bird feeder to hang in the garden. Even simply taking a walk through the woods or doing a scavenger hunt, will give your child the chance to learn about nature and all it has to offer. Ask them to think about how the trees change with the different seasons and what habitats are required by different species of animals. These are just a few ideas to get you started; there are plenty more activities you can carry out if you put your mind to it.
*This is a collaborative post.
Can’t beat the freedom. Now the weather’s better we’ll be out and about too.