As the days grow longer and spring settles in, May becomes the perfect month for nurseries to embrace outdoor learning. With Outdoor Classroom Day taking place on 21 May 2026, early years settings across the UK will be celebrating the power of outdoor play and at KiddyKare Staff Solutions, we know just how transformative this can be for children’s development.
Outdoor learning isn’t an add‑on. It’s a core part of the EYFS, supporting communication, physical development, emotional wellbeing and curiosity. For nurseries, it’s also a chance to create memorable experiences that build confidence and independence.
Why Outdoor Learning Matters
Outdoor environments offer something indoor spaces simply can’t replicate:
- Freedom to explore without the constraints of walls
- Natural opportunities for risk‑taking and problem‑solving
- Sensory-rich experiences that support language development
- Physical challenge that builds strength, balance, and coordination
Children learn best when they’re engaged, active, and connected to the world around them and the outdoors provides the perfect backdrop.
Outdoor Activity Ideas for May
Here are some simple, curriculum-linked ideas practitioners can lead:
- Nature storytelling, outdoor role play, “I spy” vocabulary games.
- Counting petals, measuring sticks, comparing leaf sizes, shape hunts.
- Minibeast observations, weather charts, planting seeds and tracking growth.
- Obstacle courses, balancing logs, water play, digging and transporting.
Risk-Benefit Assessments: A Key Part of Outdoor Learning
Outdoor play naturally involves manageable risk and that’s a good thing. Practitioners support children by:
- Completing dynamic risk assessments
- Modelling safe behaviour
- Teaching children how to assess risk themselves
- Ensuring ratios and supervision remain strong
How Flexible Staff Support Outdoor Provision
Nurseries often need additional hands during outdoor-heavy days, especially in spring and summer. Our team helps by:
- Maintaining safe supervision levels
- Leading small-group outdoor activities
- Supporting transitions between indoor and outdoor spaces
- Bringing fresh ideas and energy to outdoor learning
Outdoor Classroom Day is a brilliant reminder of the value of learning beyond the walls of the nursery. With the right support, nurseries can create outdoor experiences that spark imagination, build resilience and nurture a lifelong love of nature.
Speak to our team today to find out how our flexible practitioners can enhance your nursery setting. Call us on 01628 675828.
Author: Jodi Walden
