At Dandelions, we are very proud of our outside learning environment and ensure that it provides development and learning in all areas. We understand the importance that the environment meets the needs of all children and we are confident we have achieved this.

We are a free-flow setting, meaning the children have access to the outside throughout the day. Weather does not stop the fun at Dandelions, as long as it is safe, we will be outside learning through play and exploration.
Our environment is equipped with a range of open-ended resources that can be used in various ways. Using crates and wooden planks; the children create obstacle courses and buildings to support their role-play.

We have recently introduced an outside cosy den; this provides a space for children to have some quiet time outside; looking at books or exploring the sensory resources.Our sensory garden provides an area where children can connect with nature, use their senses to explore the plants around them such as smelling lavender, sit quietly to listen for sounds and use this area for some quiet calm time.

The equipment provided and the natural environment allow children to take age-appropriate risks in their play. Managing risks is a key life skill that encourages confidence when outside and allows children to learn how to manage their risks safely.

Our garden has a construction area where children can dig, build, explore, investigate, role play and so much more. We create some amazing potions in our mud kitchen and the sandpit is a firm favourite with the children.
Being outside allows children to connect to the world around them; whether that be hunting for bugs, growing and looking after plants, learning how to care for the world around us or learning about the weather. 

https://early-education.org.uk/outdoor-learning-in-the-early-years/