ABSTRACT
I have always been intrigued by the fact that nursery schools and classes have an outdoor play area. It does not matter in what part of the country, whether a large or small class, nursery classes and schools will nearly always have this secure, outside, accessible area attached. The question is why? Where nursery classes are attached to primary schools, why is the infant playground not used, maybe at a different time? The answer could be that under-fives need the security of a fenced area, not being old enough to play in an unfenced area, as they could wander off and they may be too unsure to play with older children. Perhaps parents need the security of knowing the children are able to play in a separate but secure area. Although these answers do so partly, they do not fully explain why this area exists. Static and movable toys and equipment are provided in this outdoor area and there are different surfaces, trees and shrubs. Staff are expected to work and play with children here as the space is open for the whole session.
