Benefits of Outdoor Play

• Outdoor play and learning can bring many benefits for young children in terms of their health and wellbeing, and physical and cognitive development and will prepare them for a lifetime of learning.  We want the best start for all of children and we believe that having fun outdoors from an early age is the best way we can help our children to thrive.
• The Scottish Government has stated that its vision is that “All Scotland’s children have the best possible start in life through access to outdoor play-based learning to be successful learners, confident individuals, effective contributors and responsible citizens”.
• There is strong and compelling evidence that playing and learning outdoors has many benefits for children:
•  Improves physical health – children playing outdoors are more physically active so are likely to have a healthier weight
•  Better bone density through improved strength and greater exposure to vitamin D
•  Better fundamental movement skills
•  Improved respiratory health
•  Better immune system by experiencing a greater range of microbes
•  Improved eyesight
• Improves wellbeing – children’s wellbeing and mental health is improved by playing outdoors. Resilience is developed through taking and managing risks outdoors in a safe environment
• Self-esteem and confidence are increased through free play outdoors, making own decisions, problem solving and managing boundaries
• Emotional health regulation and interpersonal skills are improved through negotiation and conflict resolution
• Wellbeing is improved by being outdoors in nature which has a calming effect
• Enhances child development – high level functions such as creativity, interpersonal skills, empathy and negotiation are improved
• Improves learning for sustainability – developing a connection to nature and an understanding of environment and place as a child increases likelihood of caring about these things as an adult
• And most importantly - it's FUN!