ABSTRACT
This chapter examines the role and value of outdoor learning in supporting Early Years science and technology and discusses a range of opportunities for quality science and technology learning outside. Much of science and technology learning lends itself to working outside; add to this an increasing popular interest in outdoor learning in Early Years practice and its relevance becomes self-evident. Learning and Teaching Scotland extend this to all ages, declaring that: ‘the journey through education for any child in Scotland must include opportunities for a series of planned, quality outdoor learning experiences’. Children are learning to take acceptable risks, work in teams, take responsibility for their own safety and care for a local habitat. ‘Muddy Mice’ at Hammonds Farm in Harpenden is an outdoor learning setting where parents are invited to attend with their pre-school children to engage in outdoor nature-based activities following the seasons and the farming calendar.
