At Atikali, we consider the outdoor play space as the 7th Learning Lab. Outdoor play space is vital to our setting because it supports children's physical, social, cognitive, and emotional development, fosters a connection with nature, promotes health and well-being, and provides diverse learning opportunities. Children get to explore, take controlled risks, and negotiate the world on their own terms!
Atikali natives can reap the following benefits from play time outdoors:
Physical Development: where children are provided with ample opportunities for engagement in physical activities such as running, jumping, climbing, and playing sports. These activities help children develop gross motor skills, balance, coordination, and strength, promoting overall physical health and well-being.
Social Development: at outdoor play encourages interaction and collaboration among children. It offers opportunities for children to engage in cooperative play, negotiate rules, resolve conflicts, and develop social skills such as communication, empathy, and teamwork.
Cognitive Development: by providing opportunities for exploration, experimentation, and problem-solving. Children can discover the natural world, observe patterns, investigate cause-and-effect relationships, and engage in imaginative play, all of which promote critical thinking and creativity.
Emotional Development: is supported by offering children a space to express themselves freely and manage their emotions. Being outdoors can have a calming effect and reduce stress and anxiety levels in children. Additionally, outdoor play encourages risk-taking in a safe environment, helping children build confidence, resilience, and self-esteem.
Connection with Nature: outdoor play spaces allow children to connect with the natural world, fostering an appreciation for the environment and promoting environmental stewardship from a young age. Children can observe plants, animals, weather patterns, and seasonal changes, developing a sense of wonder and curiosity about the world around them.
Health Benefits: such as being exposed to natural sunlight, which is a natural source of vitamin D and contributes to overall health and well-being. Outdoor play also encourages physical activity, reducing the risk of childhood obesity and related health issues.
Diverse Learning Opportunities: which complement indoor learning experiences. Children can engage in sensory exploration, math and science experiments, literacy activities, and artistic expression in an outdoor setting, enriching their learning experiences and fostering a holistic approach to education.