The Importance of Outdoor Play at Tiny Toes Nursery, Hertford – best Childcare in Hertford
At Tiny Toes Nursery in Hertford, we believe that the best learning doesn’t just happen indoors — it happens in nature, in fresh air, and through active exploration. Outdoor play is a vital part of how children grow, discover, and build confidence.
Whether it’s our two garden spaces, sensory areas, or outdoor learning activities, every day at Tiny Toes includes meaningful time outside. Here’s why outdoor play matters so much — and how we make it a core part of your child’s nursery experience.
Why Outdoor Play Is Essential for Early Years Development
Outdoor play supports every area of the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) — from physical development to communication, creativity, and emotional wellbeing. Here’s how:
The Benefits for Your Child
1. Physical Health and Motor Skills
Running, climbing, jumping, and balancing help strengthen muscles, improve coordination, and promote overall fitness. Our outdoor space encourages natural movement and builds confidence in what children’s bodies can do.
2. Emotional Wellbeing
Spending time outside reduces stress and supports mental health. Children have space to breathe, move freely, and express themselves — boosting self-esteem and emotional regulation.
3. Imagination and Curiosity
Nature sparks curiosity like nothing else. Whether it’s watching insects, exploring textures, or building dens, outdoor learning ignites creativity and problem-solving skills.
4. Social and Communication Skills
Outdoor play naturally involves teamwork — sharing, negotiating, and role-playing. It’s a wonderful setting for developing friendships and practicing language in a real-world context.
Outdoor Learning at Tiny Toes Hertford
Our nursery’s outdoor environment is designed to be safe, stimulating, and flexible — reflecting our “home-from-home” approach.
Children can explore:
- Gardening and nature areas to learn about plants and seasons
- Messy play zones for water, sand, and sensory discovery
- Outdoor construction play for teamwork and creativity
- Role-play corners to bring their imagination to life
- Quiet spaces for reading or reflection under shaded spots
We also encourage a free-flow approach, allowing children to move between indoors and outdoors throughout the day — following their curiosity and energy levels.
Learning Through Real Experiences
At Tiny Toes, we turn outdoor play into real learning moments. For example:
- Counting petals or leaves becomes an early maths activity
- Mixing mud pies introduces basic science concepts
- Talking about the weather or seasons enhances language development
Every outdoor experience is an opportunity to learn — naturally and joyfully.
All Seasons, All Weather
We believe there’s no such thing as bad weather, just the wrong clothing!
Our children enjoy outdoor play year-round, with suitable coats, boots, and sun hats depending on the season. Exploring puddles, watching raindrops, or crunching autumn leaves helps children connect deeply with the world around them.
Why Parents Love Our Outdoor Ethos
Families at Tiny Toes Nursery Hertford often tell us how much their children look forward to outdoor time. It’s where friendships blossom, confidence grows, and creativity shines. Our approach blends play and learning seamlessly — ensuring every child enjoys a rich, balanced day.
Visit Us and See It in Action
Come and see how outdoor play shapes the day at Tiny Toes Nursery, Hertford.
Book a visit via www.tinytoeshertford.co.uk and explore our outdoor learning spaces, meet our team, and discover how we help children flourish — inside and out.
Tiny Toes Nursery Hertford — nurturing curiosity, confidence, and joy through outdoor exploration.
