Recently the topic of ‘Nature Play’ and the documented benefits have become a new focus in Junior Primary education. It involves students working on bringing natural materials into their indoor and outdoor learning environment. For example they might transform a courtyard space into an ‘outdoor room’ making and using nature materials to create, build and transform the space. This process is influenced by the principles of Reggio Emilia, where we listen to the needs and interests of students and develop projects around their interests.
The benefits observed of ‘nature play’ are:
- An increase in children’s social skills with improved abilities to play cooperatively and resolve conflict
- Improved motivation and concentration
- A positive impact on children’s emotional health and wellbeing
- Development of physical skills
- Encouraging creativity and creative play
- Encouraging thinking skills and problem solving
- Providing authentic opportunities for curriculum learning
- That children learn and care about our natural world and develop a deeper connection to nature
It’s important teachers integrate ‘nature play’ into their curriculum and take learning outside the four walls of the classroom. Visits to local parklands, adventure walks and excursions to Wildlife or National Parks are just some examples of ‘nature play’ in action. Another ‘nature play’ activity is setting up ‘loose parts’ to create wicker baskets under a large tree at School. Families are asked to go out in nature and collect natural materials such as:
• Sticks
• Pebbles, rocks, stones • Shells
• Pinecones
• Bark
• Timber
• Tree stumps
Families are encouraged to continue to bring natural materials in as students love building and creating every day. Educating students on the safe and responsible use of natural resources makes them appreciate this precious resource. It is wonderful to see students developing skills such as teamwork, cooperation, persistence, problem solving and being creative!
Virginia Evans, Director of Kurrajong (ELC to Year 2) at Pulteney Grammar School
Reference: The Association of Independent Schools of Western Australia 2015, Nature Pedagogy, Daniels Printing Craftsmen, Osborne Park, Western Australia.
