Childminders: Making the Most of Being Outdoors

For Childminders, the outdoors isn’t just an optional extra — it’s one of the richest, most flexible learning environments available. Whether you have a large garden, a small patio, or rely on local green spaces, being outside offers endless opportunities for children to explore, imagine and grow.

Why the outdoors matters

Outdoor play supports every area of the EYFS, encouraging:

• Physical development through climbing, running, balancing and moving freely
• Communication and language as children describe what they see, hear and feel
• Personal, social and emotional development through shared adventures and problem‑solving
• Understanding the world by observing nature, seasons and real‑life environments

For many children, outdoor spaces also offer a sense of freedom and calm that can be harder to achieve indoors.

Making the most of what you have

You don’t need a huge garden or expensive equipment to create meaningful outdoor experiences. Small, thoughtful changes can make a big difference:

• Loose parts such as sticks, stones, pots and pans spark creativity and open‑ended play
• Water play using buckets, funnels and gutters encourages experimentation
• Mini nature areas with herbs, flowers or bug hotels help children connect with living things
• Cosy corners outdoors give children a place to read, rest or chat

Even a short walk to a local park, woodland or high street can become a learning adventure.

Following children’s interests

Outdoors, children often lead the way. A puddle becomes a science experiment. A fallen leaf turns into a treasure. A passing dog sparks a conversation about pets. Childminders are uniquely placed to tune into these moments, extending learning in natural, meaningful ways.

Supporting wellbeing

Fresh air, movement and open space support emotional regulation and wellbeing. Many childminders notice that children who struggle indoors often thrive outside. Outdoor play can reduce stress, boost confidence and help children feel grounded and secure.

Practical tips for everyday outdoor learning

• Keep a grab‑and‑go outdoor kit with chalk, magnifying glasses, clipboards and pencils
• Build outdoor time into your daily rhythm, whatever the weather
• Involve children in caring for plants, tidying spaces and noticing seasonal changes
• Use outdoor experiences to spark conversations, stories and creative projects indoors

Celebrating childminders’ creativity

Childminders are experts at making the most of what’s around them. From turning a small garden into a mini‑allotment to transforming a local walk into a nature trail, your creativity and flexibility give children experiences they will remember for years.

Being outdoors isn’t just good for children — it’s good for you too. A change of scenery, fresh air and shared exploration can bring joy, calm and connection to your day.

And it’s wonderful to see Lewisham childminders embracing this so enthusiastically — they really do make the most of being outdoors!

Mike is a childminder - Londoner #260