Nature is one of the most powerful classrooms we have, and at Kenmore Hills Early Learning, we’ve created outdoor environments that go far beyond recess. These play spaces are thoughtfully designed to promote exploration, critical thinking, and physical development, while also fostering a deep and lasting connection to the natural world.
Children are natural scientists, and when placed in a rich, well-planned outdoor setting, they begin to investigate and question the world around them. Whether they’re collecting leaves, building structures with sticks, or observing insects in our garden beds, they are engaging in meaningful, inquiry-based learning. According to Nature Play WA, outdoor learning builds creativity, resilience, problem-solving skills, and supports mental health and wellbeing (source).
Our outdoor curriculum includes hands-on garden projects, water play, obstacle courses made from natural materials, and quiet spaces for mindfulness and reflection. Educators use these moments to integrate learning outcomes from the Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF), such as counting and measuring in the garden, storytelling in shaded areas, and even early science concepts like cause and effect in our sensory sand and water stations.
Importantly, outdoor play supports gross motor skill development and helps children learn to take safe risks — jumping, balancing, climbing, and crawling through natural elements. These experiences build confidence, coordination, and body awareness, which are essential for school readiness and lifelong physical wellbeing.
We also create opportunities for children to work collaboratively outdoors, solving problems and engaging in imaginative play that nurtures social and emotional development.
At KHEL, our outdoor spaces reflect our belief that learning happens everywhere. We invite children to take the lead, make discoveries, and fall in love with the natural world — one adventure at a time.
Recent Comments