Outdoors is vital for young children's development

In my last year of my studies I undertook a small research that discussed the relevance of how outdoor spaces foster young children's creativity. A key learning for me was research undertaken by my former lecturer Cheryl Greenfield - a keen outdoor environmentalist. She suggests "New Zealand children want to play outside...outdoor settings that awakens their sense of beauty, complexity, dynamics of the natural world; honour children's curiosity and motivated to explore and problem solve" (Greenfield, 2007). She further suggests an optimal outdoor setting requires the vital stimulus in order for physical active play in children. This promotes children's learning along with adults that value and appreciate the holistic development of children. Adults who are committed to provide opportunities need to be educated and skilled in outdoor settings that ensure their experiences are rich and meaningful. In line with this thinking, our goal is to provide rich outdoor experiences for children. Hence we are fortunate to have the help of our very good friend Sue Heathwaite - keen educator, herb gardener, bird whisperer at heart! Her wisdom will add value for our childen to have meaningful experiences. Therefore this outdoor space is a work in progress...watch this space.