Outdoor Learning Environments

The Importance of Outdoor Learning Environments for Children

• Outdoor environments can increase physical activity in children, as they tend to be more energetic when outdoors.
• Getting kids outdoors for long periods of time can lead to higher physical activity energy expenditure.
• Outdoor environments provide opportunities for children to engage with food cycles, promoting healthy choices and learning.
• Well-designed natural learning environments can encourage children to participate in the continuous food cycle, promoting awareness and engagement in learning and healthy choices.

North Carolina's New Approach to Outdoor Learning

• The language describing outdoor spaces in North Carolina has changed to reflect the richness of natural settings.
• "Outdoor Learning Environment" is now the official term used in North Carolina, acknowledging the outdoor environment as a serious educational resource.

Benefits of Outdoor Learning Environments

• Outdoor environments provide a space for children to learn, have fun, and develop physically, emotionally, and cognitively.
• Children's interests are encouraged in outdoor environments, allowing them to discover and pursue their passions.
• Spaces that eliminate the distinction between indoors and outdoors can be effective in promoting learning and play.

Physical Development in Outdoor Environments

• Outdoor environments provide diverse and complex spaces that afford incredible physical movement opportunities.
• Children develop body awareness and negotiate spaces with uneven terrain, rocks, and varying heights.
• Outdoor environments promote physical development in various ways, including movement, curiosity, and exploration.

Autonomy and Independence in Outdoor Play

• Outdoor play provides a safe space for children to make decisions without direct adult intervention, fostering decision-making skills and autonomy.
• Children develop problem-solving skills in outdoor environments, encouraging critical thinking and independence.
• Outdoor play builds self-confidence in children as they successfully navigate challenges and overcome obstacles.

Initiative and Intrinsic Motivation in Outdoor Play

• Outdoor environments are rich in opportunities for curiosity-driven learning, encouraging children to explore and investigate their interests.
• Children set and work towards achieving their own goals in outdoor play, teaching them about goal setting, perseverance, and achievement.
• Intrinsic motivation is fostered in outdoor play, as children are motivated by the activity itself, rather than external rewards or pressures.