Outdoor Learning Boosts Growth in Early Childhood Education

More early childhood centers are turning to outdoor learning as a way to improve children’s development and engagement. The approach allows children to learn through direct experiences with nature instead of staying inside the classroom all day.

According to educators, outdoor learning helps children develop curiosity, creativity, and physical strength. Activities such as gardening, observing insects, and exploring playgrounds encourage them to use their senses while learning about the environment. Teachers say that outdoor lessons make children more active and focused.

“Children remember better when they can touch, see, and feel what they are learning,” said Dewi Lestari, a kindergarten teacher in South Jakarta. She added that outdoor learning also helps children build teamwork and communication skills, as they often work together to solve simple challenges during play.

Some schools have started creating outdoor learning spaces like mini gardens, sand areas, and water play zones. These spaces allow children to experiment freely while developing balance, coordination, and problem-solving abilities. Parents have also reported that their children seem happier and more confident after spending time learning outdoors.

Experts believe that outdoor learning can become a powerful complement to traditional teaching. By combining nature and education, schools are helping children build not only knowledge but also a lifelong appreciation for the world around them.