Peer-reviewed research2017 Otago review (McNatty & Boyes)
Social contexts of development in natural outdoor environments: children's motor activities, personal challenges and peer interactions at the river and the creek
Observations show time outdoors helps young children's physical and social development, including confidence in the face of risk.
What's new
This study examines the influence of time outdoors on young children's physical and socioemotional development. Observations of motor activities, play and responses to challenging environmental features support the importance of accumulated experience and social contexts for developing confidence in the face of risk, exploration, positive social support and engagement with peers.
Why it matters in Aotearoa
Supports repeated outdoor time for young children.
How strong is the evidence
Peer-reviewed observational study of young children
What to read
The full article
Who it's for
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