Nature play can be an effective teaching strategy across the curriculum and may provide children and teachers with lasting memories. Research shows that experiences in natural settings provide multiple benefits to young children, including increased physical activity, reduced obesity, improved concentration, and enhanced social skills. Early…

Can teachers of young children create stimulating and enriching outdoor environments that are also safe? This article highlights early childhood outdoor safety standards and presents a framework for creating quality and SAFE™ outdoor environments in early childhood programs that support children's interest and best practice. The outdoor…

Discusses the design of playgrounds to maximize play value and minimize risk. Considers four major risk factors--lack of supervision, inappropriate design for children's ages, falls to hard surfaces, and poor equipment maintenance--and discusses ways to design the playground to minimize these risks. (JPB)

Discusses typical playground hazards, environmental factors affecting safety in play areas, playground safety guidelines and standards established by the Consumer Product Safety Commission and the American Society of Testing Materials, and playground surfacing and equipment. Offers suggestions for reducing the number and severity of playground…

Cites research which suggests that U.S. playgrounds are hazardous and developmentally sterile. Factors that affect the relationship of playgrounds to child development include (1) the developmental appropriateness of playground environments; (2) gender differences in outdoor play; (3) well-equipped play environments; (4) the use of portable play…

Examines children's developmental needs with regard to outdoor play areas, the types of equipment needed to encourage all kinds of play, and the advantages and disadvantages of homemade and commercial playground equipment and various playground materials. Discusses the role of safety standards, outlines requirements of the Americans with…

Notes that the increasing number of violent crimes committed by children is a result of play deprivation. Discusses different forms of play and distinguishes between controlled and free play. Examines factors such as inadequate outdoor spaces, organized sports, and hi-tech entertainment which interfere with spontaneous play. Discusses the concept…

Provides an overview of outdoor learning environments, discusses types of children's play that promote their learning and growth, examines the role of outdoor play on children's development, and lists several indoor activities which can also be used as outdoor activities. (BC)

Discusses development of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) in children living in violent homes and communities. Discusses the role of teachers in creating classrooms that feel safe. Notes the importance of relearning safety to children who have PTSD. Describes strategies to create feeling of safety in the children. (BAC)

High-quality family child care and school-age programs have characteristics to promote positive relationships among families and children that enhance children's development and family functioning, much like the thriving neighborhoods of previous generations. These characteristics include choice and variety, environments emphasizing safety and…