Risk and outdoor play: possibilities and opportunities

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Published: Dec 22, 2024
DOI: https://doi.org/10.12681/icw.35486
Zoi Nikiforidou
University of Ioannina, EYLD
https://orcid.org/0000-0003-3371-271X
Abstract

The last years and especially after the pandemic, many researchers and professionals have been underlying the importance of outdoor play for children’s holistic development and wellbeing. The rich multisensory character of experiential learning in outdoor environments provides invaluable possibilities through which young children can explore themselves, the others, and the world around them. The current presentation will refer to the benefits of outdoor play, its pedagogical value, the role of the agents and the characteristics of the outdoor space. Specific reference will be made on risk as a necessary element of ‘being and becoming’ and how outdoor play, and not only, can provide a safe place where children can try their abilities, dare, and overcome their limits. These are experiences that lead to the development of personalities with responsibility, autonomy, self-esteem, and awareness.

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