Young children learn through play. They explore and experiment in play. They act out situations they see in daily life, and they problem solve in play. Although most play occurs indoors, it is essential for young children to have outdoor play as well. There are significant benefits for each young child.
Unfortunately, children are often prevented from playing outdoors due to unsafe neighborhoods, television, video games, or busy family life with multiple appointments. Young children in quality childcare programs should have daily opportunities each to play outdoors, but these opportunities may be taken away because of rigorous academic requirements. Sometimes the early childhood educators do not take the children outside due to their own lack of energy or because they are not properly dressed for the weather. These obstacles do not benefit the children, and it is essential for all early childhood professionals to advocate for outdoor playtime! Since children often become restless and unfocused without outdoor play time, it benefits the teachers and the students to utilize the outdoor environment each day.
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AuthorDr. Sarah Vanover has been working in the field of early childhood education for over 22 years and has had the opportunity to be a teacher, a director, and a trainer for other early childhood educators. She has a passion for making sure that children with special needs receive high-quality early care and education. Archives
September 2017
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