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This document from Western Australia is a powerful resource for recognising and linking curriculum, outcomes and capabilities to Nature Play/Pedagogy from Early Years up to and including Year 6.

Outdoor learning spaces are a feature of Australian learning environments. They offer a vast array of possibilities not available indoors. Play spaces in natural environments include plants, trees, edible gardens, sand, rocks, mud, water and other elements in nature. These spaces invite open-ended interactions, spontaneity, risk-taking, exploration, discovery and connection with nature. They foster an appreciation of the natural environment, develop environmental awareness and provide a platform for ongoing environmental education (DEEWR, 2009, P. 16).

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Author: Wynne, S. & Gorman, R. (2015). Possible nature play curriculum links. Nature pedagogy. Osborne Park: Association of Independent Schools of Western Australia. Retrieved from www.ais.wa.edu.au/aiswa-publications

Year Level: Early Years, Primary

Subject Area: Curriculum

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This thesis from Landscape Architect Ashley Parsons, explains why designers of children’s playscapes should recognise the importance of play, nature experiences and the benefits that outdoor play have on children’s health and development. The author points out that play is a pivotal part of a child’s life and that children’s direct social and individual experiences in nature between the ages of three and twelve (the ‘developmental window of opportunity’) help shape their environmental identity and guide their environmental actions. It also provides children with experiences in naturalistic landscapes which could potentially influence morality, value development and future action.

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Author: Parsons, A, 2011

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Host Kevin Mulryne and Behaviour Specialist Paul Dix interview leading Scottish outdoor educator, and former Head Teacher Juliet Robertson. Author of popular outdoor teaching resources Dirty Teaching and Messy Maths, Juliet discusses planning, environments, risk taking, health and safety, curriculum content, quality and efficiency. Contains many supporting statements and practical ideas for educators looking to take the leap into outdoor learning. Essential listening.

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Length: 44m : 15s

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Circle of Life Rediscovery offer outdoor learning programs, camps and events in the UK. This blog supports their programs, giving insight, information and ideas for forest school and adventure activities including The Woodland Project which provides children with disabilities and their families the opportunity to learn new skills, uncover hidden talents and spend quality time together at peace, in nature.

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Sarah Blackwell is the Founder and CEO of Forest Schools Education, Forest Schools Kindergarten and Archimedes Earth as well as a well-known public speaker in the field of alternative education and outdoor learning. With over 30 years’ experience supporting outdoor play and learning, Sarah’s blog has many resources, links and discussion around the latest research and hot topics.

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Nature Play SA acknowledges Traditional owners of Country throughout Australia and recognise their continuing connection to lands, waters and communities. We pay our respect to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures; and Elders past, present and emerging.