Healthy bodies, happy students
Getting kids playing and having fun outside has many physical benefits. As found by Play Scotland, here’s some of the main ones.
- Running, climbing, and balancing on playground equipment builds strength and coordination, as well as boosting agility and fitness.
- Spending time in the fresh air and sunshine helps kids soak up Vitamin D, which keeps bones strong and strengthens the immune system.
- Healthier kids mean fewer sick days. Schools that encourage outdoor play often see better attendance and fewer absences due to sickness, which is a win for everyone!
- Play is an important part of childhood, affecting the way the brain develops and impacting both physical and cognitive development.
Recharge, Refocus, Repeat
Time spent playing outdoors has been proven to reduce stress and anxiety, acting as a natural way to boost mood and regulate emotions, as well as various other mental, emotional, and social benefits! Here’s a few key points according to the Early Years Alliance.
- Outdoor break time is important in helping kids reset and take a break from academic life, helping them to come back more focused and ready to learn.
- Outdoor play provides a valuable outlet for energy and emotions, creating a calmer and more productive classroom environment. Teachers often report that students return from outdoor playtime refreshed and ready to engage in lessons.
- Playing outdoors also offers an opportunity for their imaginations to run wild! This creativity often carries over into the classroom, enhancing story-telling, problem-solving skills and innovation.
- Kids learn essential social skills during outdoor play - sharing, taking turns, working together… the list is endless.
- This time is not only a great opportunity to build friendships and release energy, but for schools it can help reduce behavioural issues and disruptions. This can result in a more positive learning environment and a smoother school day for everyone!
Want to read more about the benefits of outdoor play to children’s mental, social, emotional well-being? Check out our blog post here.
Boosting academic success
Outdoor play also has been found to have a positive relationship with academic performance and cognitive development.
- Absolutely Education found that children who spend time outdoors are able to concentrate better and therefore perform better in tasks requiring attention.
- A break from learning stimulates brain function, enabling children to absorb information more effectively.
- Outdoor learning is something more and more schools are trying to prioritise… and for good reason! Outdoor learning spaces make subjects more engaging and can connect concepts to the real world resulting in better comprehension and retention of knowledge.
- Schools that prioritise outdoor play stand out and often see improved relationships with parents and the community, showcasing the school’s commitment to student well-being and development, and providing a well-rounded curriculum.
How schools can encourage outdoor play
Making outdoor play a priority doesn’t have to be hard. Here’s how schools can make it a reality:
- Invest in quality playgrounds: A well-designed playground encourages diverse and inclusive play, catering to different interests and abilities.
- Incorporate outdoor learning: Use outdoor spaces for lessons and group activities, blending play with education.
- Regular outdoor playtime: Ensure students have adequate outdoor breaks, even in colder weather.
Let’s make it happen
Outdoor play is more than just a break from the classroom - it’s a fundamental part of childhood and is crucial in helping children thrive. From happier, healthier, and more engaged students to stronger school communities and well-supported teachers, the benefits for schools are too big to ignore.
At Home Front Outdoor Play, we’re all about creating playgrounds that inspire imagination, adventure, and connection. Let’s work together to give every student the chance to learn and play outside.
Ready to up your school’s outdoor play game?
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