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Similar to an indoor learning environment, your outdoor space should be safe and organized and include planned activities as well as free time. The purpose of an outdoor environment is to encourage children to be active, to give them a break from being indoors, and to support learning in a variety of environments. It is important to understand the strengths and constraints of the outdoor spaces available to you, so you can proactively consider design ideas and materials that make the most of your outdoor environment. Some may have permanent climbing and gross-motor equipment, while others have equipment carts that are brought out during outdoor time. Depending on your school-age program, the outdoor environment may include a dedicated outdoor play space at your program location, or you may use nearby outdoor spaces such as a local park. Some might have a wide-open green space, wooded areas, and gardens whereas others may mostly utilize a paved area. Outdoor environments will look different from program to program. In fact, playground design can impact children’s creative thinking and imaginative play (Susa & Benedict, 1994), and school-age children’s motor skill development and competence (Barbour, 1999). Children are more likely to enjoy and engage with environments that are flexible, where equipment can function in multiple ways (e.g., balls, sandboxes, self-constructed “forts”), and where more active play is supported (Walsh, 1993). We also know that the quality of the outdoor environment matters. For example, in a study of 7- to 12-year-olds with attention deficit disorder (ADD), children displayed less severe ADD symptoms after they spent time in “green” settings, and the greener the outdoor environment, with more grass and trees, the better the effect (Taylor, Kuo & Sullivan, 2001). In addition, playing outdoors and opportunities to connect with nature may be particularly beneficial for some children with special needs. The links at the end of the “Learn” section provide more information on the benefits of outdoor play for children and youth. Increased attention and cognitive abilities (Wells, 2000).Production of Vitamin D (an essential vitamin for bone health) through exposure to sunlight.Greater visual-motor integration (or the ability to control hand or body movement guided by vision).Numerous opportunities to strengthen motor skills.Research has helped us identify many other benefits to playing outdoors (Children and Nature Network, 2012), such as:
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In addition, children can experience the plants and animals in their local ecosystem (Greenman, 2007). Outside, children and youth can release energy, use loud voices, play vigorously, and engage in messy projects. There are many benefits to children and youth playing outside.