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School's out(doors) for summer: Ross MSP flags benefits of 'wonderful spaces' for children's education


By Hector MacKenzie

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Maree Todd MSP: Hopes guide will inspire more outdoors experiences for schoolchildren.
Maree Todd MSP: Hopes guide will inspire more outdoors experiences for schoolchildren.

A ROSS-based MSP with a governmental responsibility for children has flagged up the advantages of outdoor play ahead of an awareness-raising day.

Children’s Minister Maree Todd marked Outdoor Classroom Day by highlighting ways to set up outdoor experiences for children.

The Scottish Government’s new guide, Out to Play, gives nurseries who want to establish themselves as fully outdoor and those looking to expand their outdoor spaces tips on how to create engaging, imaginative spaces outside.

It has been sent to all 3684 nurseries and playgroups in Scotland.

Ms Todd, who is a Highlands and Islands MSP, said:“Playing, learning and having fun outdoors helps to improve children’s wellbeing and resilience, allowing children to use the natural world to help develop curiosity. Scotland has a wealth of amazing outdoor space, and the expansion of early learning and childcare provides us with an opportunity to increase the amount of time children spend playing in these wonderful spaces.

“This guide gives practical advice on where to start with creating outdoor settings, including information on buying or renting land, getting the right permissions and insurance, providing shelter and outdoor clothing. We hope that ‘Out to Play’ will inspire more people to think about how the children they care for can spend more time outdoors.”

Carly Sefton of the group Learning Through Landscapes, said: "Global research carried out as part of the campaign has shown that when children learn and play outdoors their physical and mental health is enhanced. In addition, 88% of teachers asked also reported that children were more engaged with their learning when classes took place outside.

“By supporting Outdoor Classroom Day, the Scottish Government is continuing to show their commitment to improving the education of children in Scotland. Over 1.5 million children globally will help celebrate Outdoor Classroom Day and it is wonderful that children in Scotland are being supported to take part in this important event.”

The new guidance is part of the Early Learning and Childcare (ELC) expansion programme to give every three and four-year-old, and eligible two-year-olds, 1140 funded hours a year from August next year.


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