From a very early age, children crave being outdoors, curiously exploring the world around them. But, between this year’s lockdowns and our ever-increasing screen-based society, children have been spending more and more time indoors.
Getting outdoors is so important for children. It assists in the development of curiosity and enquiry, and enables children to connect and interact with their community and feel a sense of belonging. It’s also important for your child’s health, with the outdoors offering many physical and mental benefits.
Sharon Whiteman, Guardian Childcare & Education’s Chief Network Officer, says, “Spending time outdoors in nature is an integral part of your child’s learning experiences – it is where children can delve into nature, and explore the world around them and where they belong in that picture. With summer finally here and lockdowns lifted, it’s a great opportunity for you and your child to get out and about, enjoy the fresh air and soak up some vitamin D.
“Outdoor experiences are a significant part of our Summer Learning Program, which is unique to each Guardian Centre and tailored to the interests of the children,” adds Sharon. “These programs ensure our children have the opportunity to have a fun, engaging and social time during the holiday period, while continuing their learning journey – which is especially important for those older children about to transition to primary school. Our Summer Learning Programs also support our families who have work and personal commitments over the summer period.
“From water play to science experiences, gardening and excursions out into the local community, as well as a ‘Flying Start to School Program’ dedicated to helping our older children make the transition – there is something to spark every child’s needs and curiosity.”
Outdoor activities inspired by the Guardian Summer Learning Program
There are some amazing experiences on offer. As well as being part of Guardian’s Summer Learning Program, these activities are suitable to enjoy at home to encourage your child into the great outdoors.
Water play: Water play is a great experience for children of all ages, and the learning opportunities just seem to ‘flow’! “Water can change its form, temperature, shape and volume quickly and easily – so it really is an ideal real-world play experience,” says Sharon.
“At Guardian play-based learning is the basis of our curriculum. It’s not just play for the sake of it. There is always intention behind what we do, and outcomes for the children.”
Water based play for example has a range of learning outcomes, such as:
Early math concepts as your child measures size, quantities and volume.
Early science concepts as your child wonders and works out how water works and moves in different ways – liquid, ice, freezing, melting, and even bubbles that float in the air!
- Language development through conversation.
- Movement and coordination as your child uses their large and small muscles to stir and pour and lift.
- Basic science skills like conducting an experiment, hypothesising what might happen and giving feedback.
- Sensory development through sight, sound and touch.
- Hand-eye coordination as your child directs and connects with their object through pouring and mixing.
‘View some of our most popular water play experiences here.
Tricky play: ‘Tricky’ play refers to the physical and mental challenges associated with experiences that encourage children to try new things and test their limits to grow and learn. Activities such as climbing a fort, leaping from log to log, or rolling down hills help your child develop their coordination, balance, and fine and gross motor skills.“Tricky play will help make your child more resilient, confident and better at risk assessment. So, take your child to the local park where they can race up the climbing net, play tag with their friends or roll in the grass,” suggests Sharon.
Gardening: “Getting your child involved in gardening is a great learning experience. You can teach your child about sustainability, nature, how food is grown, and the lifecycle of plants. It’s also a chance for children to get their hands dirty – which we all know they love to do – as well as learn patience, as their plants may take weeks or months to sprout. Once it’s time to harvest your crops, enjoy them in a healthy outdoor picnic!”
Yoga: “Yoga teaches children balance, flexibility, breathing techniques (which are beneficial self-calming tools), and, most of all, gives your child the chance to laugh and have fun as they experiment with different poses. Bring a yoga mat outdoors, or simply practise on a soft patch of grass to connect you and your child with nature,” says Sharon.
Lastly, Sharon recommends you follow these Sun Smart tips when heading outdoors with your child.
In Australia, we have exceptionally strong sunlight, which can lead to overexposure to UV rays – the leading cause of skin cancer. As your children learn from you, it’s important to set a good standard and be a positive role model when it comes to sun safety. This means to Slip, Slop, Slap, Seek and Slide – the SunSmart statement to live by.
- SLIP on and cover up with your protective clothes
- SLOP on your sunscreen 20 minutes before you go outside
- SLAP on a hat that shades your face, neck, head and ears
- SEEK out some soothing shade to set up under
- SLIDE on a pair of Australian-approved sunnies.
“Encouraging your child to practise sun safety can be a challenge, but it’s necessary, so you may have to get creative in this department,” says Sharon.“Take your child shopping for their own cool new wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses. If your child is old enough, give them some independence when it comes to applying sunscreen. Even invest in a beach tent or umbrella so you can create your own shade while not missing out on fun outdoor activities.”
Find out more about Guardian’s Summer Learning Program. It is completely free for enrolled families and will run 14 December, 2020 – 29 January 29, 2021 at every Guardian Centre.
Guardian will also be running ‘A Flying Start to School’ program (4 January – 29 January 2021) for older children who are moving on to primary school. This program will include extra experiences designed to help prepare children for the exciting transition to school.
If you would like to experience the Guardian difference and secure your child a place in our Summer Learning Program, book a tour today!
