Outside Play

There are many ways of learning in education, and in recent years we have noticed that outside play contributes to an important part of learning.
The typical way of learning usually is seen as the 'writing and reading' method, where a teacher writes on maybe a blackboard and children sit and listen and then get given writing tasks to do individually.
However, this method isn't always the best way in teaching children. Outside play proves to be a very successful way in educating children.
For instance, we learn how to grow vegetables outside, we learn about the environment, we learn about sports, nature, animals, and plants, e.t.c. 

Children need to learn about these interesting facts that take place outside the classroom and need to go and experience it for themselves. Bruce, (1996) also said that learning through first hand experience is one of the best ways in which children learn.
Play and learning are closely intertwined with one another. 


There are many projects wanting primary schools to ensure that outside play is taking place in educating children, and that they are also teaching the right things outside. It is important to have a growth area outside where children can learn to grow food and how that process works, as much as it's important for children to do sports outside and to play freely outside on their own or with peers. 

The outside environment allows children to get fresh air and not be stuck in a small classroom all day being in a small space. Aronson (2002).

The outside play method also lets children be children. It gives them the opportunity to jump, run, play, discover, explore, yelling, climbing and just being children. 
As well as the importance of learning in the outside environment, play is just as important for children when learning.

Outside play fulfils children's needs for freedom of play and being able to do what they want to, having a sense of adventure and being themselves. Greenman (1993)

From previous research from books, authors and teachers have found that outside play can be beneficial for all ages and even teachers too. Getting involved in activities outside and coming together to learn and participate can be fun for everyone in the school environment. 

Although children learn the majority of things inside the classroom, it's crucial that they learn outside too. The importance is stressed that children need to be outside and need to play with one another and explore the world for themselves. 
If education was just about writing, reading and listening it would be a boring place for all children. Outside play brings out the fun opportunities and activities that children can do and freely participate in. 
To gain a better knowledge of the outside world, children must have the chance and opportunity to be able to play outside and discover in that environment. 





References

1. 'Learn and Play Out'
Retrieved in April from :
(http://www.routledge.com/books/details/9780415656368/)


2. Community Playthings, 'Outdoor Play'
Viewed in April, from :
(http://www.communityplaythings.co.uk/learning-library/articles/outdoor-play-for-children)


3. The Outside Play and Learning Book: 'Activities for Young Children'. Karen Miller (1989) Gryphon House,U.S.