EDUCATION
Run, Play, Learn Encouraging children to play outdoors in nature can teach them about the environment and the importance of looking after the world we live in for future generations. Sara Whatley gets her wellies on and gets outside!
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hildren naturally love playing outdoors. It gives them space to physically move fast and freely, be loud and expressive and have time to explore and be messy – perfect fun for young ones! Through playing outdoors in nature children are also learning about the environment and with a few additions, they can learn about the possibilities of recycling as well. Unleashing children outdoors when they have been inside for a while can be like opening a box of springs – off they go wildly zigzagging in all directions, their little feet skipping and jumping as they run. Allowing free outdoor play is vital to let children burn off energy,
Unleashing children outdoors when they have been inside for a while can be like opening a box of springs
develop gross and fine motor skills and enjoy the feeling of moving their bodies, which will serve them well all through their lives and help to keep them healthy. Many schools now have access to forest schools, which provide a variety of different habitats for children to enjoy. They can be based in wooded areas, but also in grassland, parks with trees, and even rivers or
January 2022 | SUSSEX LIVING 75
