Dec 8, 2013 | Art & Music Outdoors
I like children to explore their local environment in different ways. One aspect of geography is learning to recognise key features in a landscape. In the early years this may start with simply being able to name and identify what they see in different directions. By...
Dec 3, 2013 | Art & Music Outdoors, Early Years Outdoors, Play Resources
When working outside, I end up using a lot of different surfaces. A stock item in my bag is an old white sheet. I have various sorts and sizes from king-size (ideal for whole class work) down to cot-size (for pairs or individual work). I use them deliberately to...
Nov 27, 2013 | Early Years Outdoors, Nature Play & Learning
We tend not to associate urban areas with wildspace. Places where children have the opportunity to connect with nature in their own way. Yet in the heart of Aberdeen lies a tiny beach which does just that. It is becoming quietly famous in its own way because it...
Nov 20, 2013 | Developing School Grounds & Outdoor Spaces, Early Years Outdoors
Last year, one of my projects at school was to create a sandpit in one part of the grounds, just outside an Additional Support Needs class. The children had been very fond of the sand in a circle of wooden log stumps. It was clear from their constant interest in the...
Nov 9, 2013 | Developing School Grounds & Outdoor Spaces, Early Years Outdoors
There is nothing quite like visiting schools, nurseries and other childcare settings to gain ideas and inspiration. I’m always delighted when I get this opportunity. Sometimes, I am asked about good places to see. In my opinion it is not possible to find a...
