Outdoor education and play support emotional, behavioral, and intellectual development. As children grow older, it's important to provide them with outlets that allow them to exercise their natural energy and develop healthy skills. Outdoor physical activity helps children build strength, focus, self-esteem, and endurance. It also allows them to develop social skills, learning to work together with their friends and colleagues.
Aisha discovers two more acorns and shares them with Brady, who is 2 years old. Kate offers Aisha and Brady small bags that they can use to collect more acorns and other interesting items they find during the walk. The group's progress around the apple is slow, as children find twigs, old brown leaves, new green leaves and more acorns to return to the center. Research shows that older children are more attentive and more productive in the classroom when indoor or outdoor recess is part of the school day (Council on School Health 201. If older children need a brain break, it follows that younger children do too).
