My World Outdoors: Early Years Play & Learning Practice

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"My World Outdoors," published by the Care Inspectorate, is a practice resource designed to showcase how early years services in Scotland can provide high-quality play and learning experiences in natural, outdoor environments. For apprentices at L&G Learning, this document is a vital guide on why and how to integrate the outdoors into daily practice, whether your setting is building-based or fully outdoor-based.

Document Overview

The resource aims to act as a "catalyst" for the development of outdoor play across all types of care services, including nurseries, childminders, and out-of-school clubs. It moves away from simply measuring "inputs" (like whether a playground is safe) and instead focuses on "outcomes", how children actually experience and benefit from the natural world.

The document is uniquely structured around the SHANARRI wellbeing indicators (Safe, Healthy, Achieving, Nurtured, Active, Respected, Responsible, Included) to show how outdoor play supports every aspect of a child's development.

Main Takeaways for Apprentices

1. The Power of "Tuning In" to Nature

Playing outdoors is more than just fun; it is essential for health and learning. Research indicates that children who spend time in nature show improved self-esteem, better physical health, and stronger language skills.

  • Key Action: Facilitate "free-flow" play where children can explore natural textures and materials, which helps them relax and instinctively experiment.

2. Risk-Benefit vs. Risk-Averse

The guidance encourages moving away from a "risk-averse" culture to one where practitioners use **proportionate risk assessment**.

  • Key Action: Support children to enjoy potentially hazardous activities (like campfires or climbing) safely by teaching them how to manage risks themselves.

3. Outdoors as a Nurturing Space

For children who may struggle in formal, indoor settings or those dealing with emotional challenges, the outdoors can be therapeutic. The extra space and freedom allow for boisterous play or moments of quiet solitude without negative reactions from adults.

  • Key Action: Use the "professional love" approach—providing warm, supportive care while recognizing that behaviors like running or shouting are often just forms of communication that need the right space to be expressed.

4. Physical and Mental Health

In a world of increasing sedentary lifestyles, the outdoors is the primary setting for the three hours of physical activity recommended for children under five.

  • Key Action: Ensure children have opportunities for "vigorous activity" (running, climbing, jumping) every day to build strong bones, improve posture, and elevate their mood.

5. Inclusion and Equity

The outdoors is a "great leveller" where all children can participate in their own way.

  • Key Action: Ensure no child is excluded due to a lack of appropriate clothing or footwear.

  • Key Action: Plan sensory experiences (like willow tunnels) that are inclusive of children with additional needs or disabilities, allowing them to connect with the environment at their own pace.

6. Environmental Responsibility

Early experiences in nature build a "lifelong appreciation" for the world.

  • Key Action: Involve children in real-life projects like waste management, wildlife protection, or growing their own food to foster a sense of responsibility for their community.

Learning resources

Below you will useful resources to support you on your learning and development journey.

Video overview

 

Podcast

Prefer to listen and learn? We’ve got you covered. Check out the podcast on the My World Outdoors.

 

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Further reading

Access the full document below.