Outdoor Play Matters: The Benefits of Outdoor Play for Young Children

Abstract

This booklet is for parents and carers of young children up to the age of six, although most of the information applies to children of all ages. It highlights the benefits of outdoor play and shows how playing outside supports your child’s development. Playing in an outdoor environment has huge benefits for young children’s learning and development. It is great for young children’s physical development and, while playing outside, children also learn how to get on with others and manage their feelings. Children also tend to develop a more positive attitude to learning when they are outdoors. They are usually more active, absorbed and involved, and they see a purpose in what they are doing.