We are absolutely delighted with our new Early Year's outdoor provision, designed and created by Cool Canvas, who create bespoke play areas using natural materials.

Children are naturally drawn to playing outside and there are so many benefits to outdoor play which have a real positive impact on children’s lives. They have the chance to connect with the natural world and have first hand experiences of life and growth. There are endless opportunities for creativity and imagination not to mention improved fitness, developed muscle strength, and coordination.

The outdoor environment is the perfect place to learn through movement, which is one of the four ways through which children can learn (the others being talk, play and sensory experiences). All of these happen more naturally outside, and so it is important that children have lots of space and opportunities to move in different ways. This was a huge consideration for us when the outdoor area was being created. We wanted something that would allow the children to climb, swing, crawl, run, jump, dig and really use those muscles.

There are also clear health benefits associated with outdoor learning and the NHS (2018) guidelines states that children under 5 years old should spend 3 hours a day doing a variety of physical activities spread throughout the day, including active and outdoor play. The more the better.

I am sure you will agree that our new outdoor space will provide the children with endless hours of activity, wonder and awe. With so many spaces to explore, inluding our huge sand pit, a texture kitchen, an amazing water wall and a stage area! With so many things to explore I have a feeling that our indoor area may be quiet for a while!

You can view more photos of our amazing outdoor area here!