Nursery World - Dig and delve

Young children love getting muddy in the garden. Lena Engel provides some advice on helping them learn from outdoor play Outdoor play offers a great deal of enjoyment and a wealth of healthy activity for babies and toddlers. As all aspects of development outlined in the Birth to Three Matters framework can be supported in the open air, practitioners working in their own homes and in day nurseries should ensure that children play outside as much as possible. Feed babies' and toddlers'

Outdoor play offers a great deal of enjoyment and a wealth of healthy activity for babies and toddlers. As all aspects of development outlined in the Birth to Three Matters framework can be supported in the open air, practitioners working in their own homes and in day nurseries should ensure that children play outside as much as possible. Feed babies' and toddlers'

hunger for knowledge and experience by giving them the tools and resources to investigate natural materials and creatures.

Adults should help babies and toddlers feel at ease outdoors and develop their interest in nature by carefully exploring its elements. These interactions with the natural world are essential to promote the aspect called 'a competent learner'. Children need first-hand experiences as well as the attention and engagement of adults to support consistent development of knowledge and expertise.

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