OPAL (Outdoor Play and Learning)

Outdoor play and learning are essential for children’s overall development, offering unique opportunities to explore, take risks, and connect with the natural world. Being outdoors encourages physical activity, which supports healthy growth and motor skills, while also promoting mental wellbeing by reducing stress and improving mood. It fosters creativity, problem-solving, and independence as children engage in open-ended play, navigate challenges, and make their own decisions. Outdoor environments also support social development, helping children build communication, teamwork, and conflict resolution skills through shared experiences. Importantly, learning outside the classroom brings education to life in meaningful ways, deepening engagement and reinforcing key skills across the curriculum.