Links
Early Childhood Ireland
Early Childhood Ireland’s website has some great ideas to encourage outdoor play - from creating an inviting environment, to having suitable resources on hand to play with, whatever the weather. They also provide a sample Outdoor Play Policy for childcare providers to refer to.
HSE - Child Safety at Play Outdoors
It is important that the safety of the outdoor environment and the equipment provided to children is considered when providing access to the outdoors. The HSE provides a comprehensive checklist to ensure safety of children in the outdoors.
The Council for Learning Outside the Classroom (UK)
The Council for Leaning Outside the Classroom (LOtC) is a registered charity in the UK which champions learning outside the classroom. LOtC seeks to ensure that more young people have access to outdoor educational experiences by providing support on the ground, facilitating the sharing of best practice and promoting the benefits of LOtC for young people. You will find research, resources and planning documents on their website
English Outdoor Council
The English Outdoor Council is an umbrella body for organisations involved in the provision of outdoor education, recreation and development training. Its website provides a guide to the benefits of outdoor learning and contains links to relevant research and academic studies.
The European Institute for Outdoor Adventure Education & Experiential Learning
The European Institute for Outdoor Adventure Education and Experiential Learning (EOE) is a network for European professionals working in the area of outdoor education. Its members include social and youth workers, teachers and educators, academics and students. The institute develops practical and academic projects which encourage outdoor education, holds an annual conference on related themes and provides its members with newsletters regarding opportunities, research and projects.