Inspire & Play speaks on the benefits natural environments have on a child’s development.
Natural playscapes have become a new phenomenon in childcare centres and early education precincts. This is because studies have revealed that they aid children’s development and growth in several ways.
They Help Children Be More Active
Natural playscapes are enticing to children, no two places are the same. Natural environments are a driver for an increased level of activity. Studies have revealed that when natural elements, like trees and grass, are incorporated into a playground, children tend to play for longer periods of time.
They Are Accessible
Natural playgrounds are seen as a place for all, unlike traditional plastic playgrounds. Natural playgrounds do not discriminate, they offer something to all children no matter their fitness levels, abilities, intelligence, gender, or culture. Children have the ability to create their own ways to play using natural resources, rather than be influenced by the equipment available to them.
They Improve Social Skills
As a natural playscape does not determine how children should play, they often collaborate and communicate with their peers. Play in an open-ended setting helps improve children’s sharing, negation, problem-solving, empathy, and leadership skills, through working with others.
They Encourage Imaginative Play
Many playscapes that have strong natural elements like trees to stimulate a child’s imagination and encourage creativity. Studies show that children who play in more natural and diverse settings tend to play in more creative ways.
They Aid in the Development of Motor Skills
A key benefit of natural playgrounds is their ability to develop children’s motor skills. Natural playgrounds encapsulate many textures, sensory activities, and natural sounds, encouraging children to use all of their senses. It is through touching, collecting natural materials, and feeling that fine motor skills are developed.
At your local Inspire & Play Early Learning Centre, we take pride in giving children everything they need to be able to thrive, learn and grow in the early stages of life.
