In our school-age program, outdoor play is an integral part of our daily routine. We dedicate at least one hour each day to being outside, with flexibility depending on the weather. On pleasant days, we often extend this time, while colder conditions may shorten it. Regardless of duration, we recognize that outdoor play is essential to children's development; supporting their physical, cognitive, emotional, and social growth. The outdoor environment offers endless possibilities for exploration and creativity. Because it is open-ended, children are free to invent and transform their play. For example, James M., James F., Samuel, and Santiago enjoy pretending they have bows, arrows, and medical kits. They divide into teams, tag each other with imaginary arrows, and then use their "kits" to heal their peers. This group has created more versions of tag than we can count; demonstrating how outdoor play nurtures imagination, creativity, and dynamic problem-solving. We are also fortunate to have access to the playground during our outdoor time. There, children enhance their gross motor skills through climbing, balancing, and jumping. Megha, Glorianne, and Cari love experimenting with the monkey bars. Cari hangs upside down, Glorianne crosses them from the side, and Megha climbs to the top to observe her friends. These activities challenge their strength, coordination, and decision-making as they determine what to try next. Outdoor play also fosters cooperation and teamwork. Through group games; like soccer, a current favorite, children practice communication, turn-taking, leadership, and conflict resolution. They negotiate rules, resolve disagreements, and work toward shared goals, all while engaging in healthy, active fun. Finally, spending time in nature strengthens children’s environmental awareness and sense of responsibility. Our school-age group is especially drawn to observing insects, caring for them, and discussing their life cycles. These hands-on experiences helps them develop a respectful, curious, and caring attitude toward the natural world and the importance of protecting it.
