Course Resources Archive

The module develops an appreciation of perspectives on the significance of children's playful encounter with natural spaces (and in turn, natural elements), drawing on a range of psychological, social and evolutionary works. From this basis, there is a consideration of the implications for planning and developing children's play spaces. Knowledge of the importance of children's contact with the outdoors and with nature is essential for practitioners if they are to provide an environment that will effectively support children's play. The knowledge and skills gained in this module will complement LE6601 Play Culture and Children's Communities.

The module proposes a theoretical foundation for a consideration of the significance of playful encounter with the outdoors that draws from a range of disciplines. This foundation is then taken into a critical examination of planning and developing play spaces.

Key themes for the module will be:

1. critically appraising benefits from contact with nature and the outdoors;
2. developmental perspectives on children’s relationship with the outdoors;
3. children's play outdoors and developing a sense of place, the special places of childhood;
4. current perspectives on children's play outdoors: restrictions on children's access, the contested spaces of children's play, commodification of play space, risk and the culture of fear; possible consequences of limited access; v. qualities of attractive outdoor play spaces
5. implications for professional practice.

A student passing this module should be able to:

1. compare and appraise the range of theoretical approaches to children's relationship with the natural world;
2. critically appraise current influences that impact on children's access to natural\outdoor play spaces and the possible consequences of these;
3. apply learning to critically review an adult-designed play space
4. evaluate the themes explored in terms of professional practice, particularly in the design and modification of play environments.

The Library Catalogue contains full details of the current reading list for this module. Further details may also be found in the Module Guide.