TEY_10_1_2020

T he one certainty we face at this time of year is that the cold, wet and windy weather is here to stay for quite a while. If we’re waiting for this to pass before we use our outdoor provision, we may well be waiting for quite a long time! “Life isn’t about waiting for the storm to pass. It’s about learning how to dance in the rain”. Such a good phrase to have in mind at this time of year when you are thinking about outdoor learning for EYFS and KS1! So, as we reach for our coats and umbrellas, it’s the perfect moment to consider how we can utilise the weather and how it changes, as part of our practice. Being prepared whatever the weather The process of getting ready to go outside at this time of year can offer lots of valuable learning experiences for EYFS and KS1 children – and if you’ve got the space to create one, it’s good practice to make a transition area between indoor and out where the children can access waterproofs and wellies themselves. This provides an ideal opportunity for developing independence and self-care skills. When setting up these spaces we need to consider the practicalities and how we can organise resources to support learning, e.g. wellingtons labelled by size, shoe storage and named pegs to attach shoes together all help the area to run smoothly and Storming It Outdoors! The fantastic possibilities of cold, wet and windy weather PARTNER CONTENT 42 Teachearlyyears.com Create inspirational outdoor learning with Early Excellence