WF, 6/12/2024 | Wee Friends Early Childhood Program LLC

Good Afternoon!

The log area in the backyard is one of our favorite spots. Not only because it is shaded and offers somewhat of an “alone” space for friends but they get to challenge themselves not only physically but mentally.

William, Adrian, and Ryan started out by moving these large, heavy logs into the corner of the space, which may be referred to as “risky play”. Their goal was to make a fort. There was no clear cut plan and working with large logs can be challenging!

They worked together to stabilize the logs against the fence and had to make sure there was enough space in their fort for all three of them which proved to be challenging!

But, they were able to accomplish this goal by use of their trial and error skills as well as their perseverance.

Risky play in an early childhood classroom can be challenging but its necessary! Children learn boundaries. They learn how to regulate their bodies. They move by engaging their fine motor skills but more so their gross motor skills!

Below I’ve attached an article about how crucial risky play is in the early childhood years. In the article, it states, “While well-intentioned, imposing rigid rules on how children engage in the outdoors can lead to missed opportunities for development in multiple domains. As they climb up slides, jump over equipment, and chase each other, children learn to assess risk, devise a plan, and take action. They make decisions and problem solve when they face a challenging moment. They also learn to process and navigate their feelings and emotions.”

https://www.naeyc.org/resources/pubs/tyc/spring2023/risk-taking-outdoor-play