Why is outdoor play a vital component to a child’s development? On this episode of the Adeona Family Podcast, Tracy and Zoe are joined by Rebecca from Nature Play QLD to discuss the importance of outdoor play in nature.   This episode covers: What is nature play and how it benefits children How families can expose their children to outdoor nature play Nature play activities, ideas and downloadable sheets Free form creativity and earth art with nature’s loose parts How to encourage children during independent play in nature How Nature Play QLD supports the community, families, early childhood centres and schools Why unstructured play is so important to a child’s development   What is Nature Play? Nature Play QLD (a program of Outdoors Queensland) is a non-profit organization working with families, communities, education centres, schools and a host of community partners.  Specifically, Nature Play QLD is founded on the understanding that unstructured, outdoor nature play is fundamental to a full and healthy childhood. Above all, their aim is to increase the time Queensland kids spend in unstructured play outdoors and in nature. For example, they support nature-based play all over Queensland in a wide variety of ways, including: Participation programs Advocacy and research Events and workshops Extensive resources for families and educators   What are the benefits of outdoor play? Outdoor free play is vital for the holistic development, overall learning and wellbeing of children. How do we know this? Well, research shows that experiences in nature fundamentally support key pillars in a child’s development. These include a child’s physical and mental health, resilience, creativity, and emotional intelligence. Likewise, engaging in nature play supports cognitive, social and emotional development, as well as instilling a lifelong awareness of the environment.   Where to find Nature Play QLD You can find Nature Play QLD on their website, or via their social channels on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.   Thank You We’d love to hear from you! If you have any feedback, suggestions or questions about anything we discussed in this episode, please feel free to reach out – zoe@adeona.com.au.   Our Early Childhood Education Centres Coorparoo | Mitchelton | Noosaville | Mackay