Nursery World - Open spaces

Spending time out of doors not only brings fresh air and freedom, but encourages self-reliance and co-operation too, explains Denis Barrowcliffe At the club where I work, the children spend at least 60 per cent of their time out of doors. In the summer, we're seldom in. I believe in getting children outside; unfortunately too much of their lives are spent indoors. Below are some of the outdoor activities I intend to introduce to staff, children and young people at our club - they may give you some ideas, too.

At the club where I work, the children spend at least 60 per cent of their time out of doors. In the summer, we're seldom in. I believe in getting children outside; unfortunately too much of their lives are spent indoors. Below are some of the outdoor activities I intend to introduce to staff, children and young people at our club - they may give you some ideas, too.

Outdoor centres

For many children and young people, a visit to an outdoor residential centre with facilities such as outward-bound courses, canoeing and abseiling is a watershed in their lives. They learn to become self-reliant, to work as a team and to be aware of the need for co-operation. They also experience satisfaction in having taken part in the activities - often seeing each other and staff in a new light - which helps to build relationships.

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