Outdoor Environment
Outdoor experiences are an important part of children’s healthy growth, learning, wellbeing and development. The benefits of outdoor learning environments and engagement in nature play for young children are varied and many. Outdoor experiences can provide an opportunity to explore, discover and appreciate the natural world, as well as be active, strengthen fine and gross motor movement skills, test physical limits and get messy. Time spent in the outdoors should be an important part of the daily program for all children.
Gross Motor Area– Gross motor (physical) skills are those which require whole body movement and which involve the large (core stabilising) muscles of the body to perform everyday functions, such as standing, walking, running, and sitting upright. It also includes eye-hand coordination skills such as ball skills (throwing, catching, kicking). We provide a range of activities for children to develop physical skills, muscle strength, balance and coordination skills.
Sandpit—Sand is a versatile medium which allows for the development of creative abilities, imagination and appreciation and awareness of a natural material. The nature of sand encourages exploration and experimentation leading to concept formation. Equipment and materials provide opportunities for children to dramatize, dig, tunnel, scoop, mould, fill, pour, carry, load and move.
Music area—Music is central to the human experience of children. Children sing to communicate thougts and feelings. Children sing as they play. They become quiet and relaxed when they hear soothing sounds. They move their bodies in concert with the sounds they hear. Music carries emotion and spirit. Music is a great gift for all children.