Outdoor Play Policy

(Updated EYFS September 2025)

Policy Statement:

At Just Little Ones Childminding, we recognise the importance of outdoor play in promoting children’s physical, cognitive, and social development. This policy outlines our approach to providing safe, enriching, and engaging outdoor play experiences that align with EYFS 2025 guidance.

Importance of Outdoor Play:

  • Outdoor play provides children with opportunities for exploration, physical activity, creativity, and connection with nature.
  • Engaging in active play outdoors supports gross motor skills, problem-solving abilities, and social interactions.
  • We ensure that outdoor play is inclusive, accessible, and developmentally appropriate for all children.

Outdoor Play Environments:

  • Our outdoor play areas are designed to be safe, stimulating, and age-appropriate.
  • Outdoor equipment and materials are regularly inspected, cleaned, and maintained to ensure safety and hygiene.
  • Natural elements such as plants, sand, water, and logs are included to support sensory exploration and imaginative play.

Weather Considerations:

  • Outdoor play will be accessible in all seasons, except in cases of extreme weather conditions that pose a safety risk.
  • Children will be dressed appropriately for the weather, including waterproof clothing, sun hats, or warm layers as needed.
  • Sunscreen will be applied as necessary, following parents’ preferences and health guidelines.

Supervision:

  • Active supervision will be provided by childminders and staff members to ensure children’s safety and engagement.
  • Staff-to-child ratios will be maintained in accordance with EYFS regulations to ensure appropriate support.
  • Supervision will encourage independent exploration while ensuring risk management and safeguarding.

Risk and Challenge:

  • We provide opportunities for manageable risk and challenge to foster resilience, confidence, and problem-solving skills.
  • Children are encouraged to assess and navigate risk safely, with childminders guiding them in decision-making.
  • Risk assessments are conducted regularly to balance safety and developmentally appropriate challenges.

Sun Safety:

  • Sun safety is a priority, and we will:
    • Apply parent-approved sunscreen when necessary.
    • Encourage children to wear hats and protective clothing.
    • Provide shaded areas for rest and cooling down.
  • Parents will be informed about our sun protection policy and are encouraged to provide sun-safe clothing.

Outdoor Play Curriculum:

  • Outdoor play is integrated into the curriculum, providing structured and free-play opportunities.
  • Activities include:
    • Nature exploration (bug hunts, gardening, water play).
    • Physical development (climbing, balancing, running).
    • Creative play (role-playing, storytelling, music).
    • STEM-based learning (exploring weather, building with natural materials).

Outdoor Play Schedule:

  • Children will have regular, scheduled outdoor play sessions to promote physical activity and well-being.
  • Outdoor time will be adapted to suit children’s ages, preferences, and developmental needs.

Nature Connection:

  • We will incorporate nature-based learning into outdoor play, helping children:
    • Understand the environment and sustainability.
    • Develop an appreciation for wildlife and plants.
    • Engage in gardening and outdoor creative activities.

Outdoor Safety:

  • Regular safety assessments of the outdoor play area will be conducted, with hazards promptly addressed.
  • Emergency procedures, including first aid, incident reporting, and evacuation plans, will be in place for outdoor activities.
  • Children will be taught outdoor safety rules, such as safe climbing, road awareness, and respecting boundaries.

Communication with Parents:

  • Parents will be informed about our outdoor play policy and planned outdoor activities.
  • Any concerns, allergies, or medical conditions affecting outdoor play will be discussed with parents.
  • Parents are encouraged to provide weather-appropriate clothing and footwear for outdoor activities.

Alignment with EYFS 2025 Changes:

  • This policy aligns with EYFS 2025, which places an increased emphasis on outdoor learning and nature-based activities.
  • The policy supports EYFS objectives for physical development, problem-solving, and emotional well-being through outdoor experiences.
  • Our approach reflects the EYFS focus on child-led exploration, allowing children to develop independence, risk awareness, and resilience in a safe outdoor setting.
  • The inclusion of sustainability, environmental awareness, and outdoor STEM activities aligns with EYFS 2025’s educational goals.

Review and Monitoring:

  • This policy will be reviewed annually or more frequently if required, ensuring compliance with EYFS updates and local authority guidelines.
  • We welcome feedback from parents, staff, and external agencies to continuously improve our outdoor play provision.

Signed: Jemma & Dale Ferriday
Date: August 2025
Review Date: April 2027