A quick glance through your setting’s library will highlight how many picture book stories take place outdoors. Many years ago, I was inspired by the way early years consultant Marjorie Ouvry used stories and storytelling to illustrate the connection between movement and cognition. Watching her explore stories outdoors, with children and practitioners, developed my appreciation of how outdoor spaces can bring stories alive.
These are just a few possibilities – almost any book can be used to stimulate imaginative and physical play outdoors.
1: DRAMA STORIES
Acting out stories and taking on character roles helps children develop language and early comprehension skills. Tales that lend themselves to active ‘promenading theatre’ include The Lighthouse Keeper’s Lunch, The Gruffalo, Stick Man and the Hairy Maclary series. Use the dressing-up box, and collect props from the outdoor play loose parts collections. Discuss locations; cut up a spare copy of the book, laminate the pages and place them in the stage set locations outdoors to remind children of what’s happening.
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