Overview Ice Breaker WHY Outdoor Play? Types of Outdoor Play Looking at Outdoor Play through the Seasons Children’s Literature that Supports Outdoor Play Resources & Materials

Why Is Outdoor Play so Important? Many of the developmental tasks that our children must achieve --- exploring, risk taking, fine and gross motor skills can be effectively addressed through outdoor play. BENEFITS include:

Physical Exercise Enjoyment of the Outdoors Learning About the World Learning about Self and the Environment The Surplus Energy Theory Health Allowing Children to Be Children Encouraging Different Kinds of Physical Play

ChallengesOur students are not participating in outdoor play because of many factors

Excessive tv and computer use Unsafe neighborhoods Busy and tired parents Push down of inappropriate curriculum Removal of recess

Getting the students outdoors each day during the school day presents challenges as well. Appropriate clothing Time Safe playgrounds Necessary Equipment

Types of Outdoor ActivitiesRecess• Big Body Play, Spontaneous Activities

Structured Activities• Parachute Play, Obstacle Courses

Focused Activities• Nature Education, Literacy, Math & Science

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