Benefits of climbing trees in early childhood pdf. Think back to your fondest memories of childhood.
Benefits of climbing trees in early childhood pdf ABSTRACT Gull, Levenson Goldstein, and Rosengarten (2018) examined the benefits and risks associated with tree climbing on child development and resiliency in regards to parental perspectives; however, it lacked a clear male perspective. Jul 6, 2025 · In recent years, educators, parents, and health professionals have increasingly recognized the value of incorporating outdoor play into early childhood education and daily routines. Safe and supervised tree climbing helps children connect with nature, practice problem-solving, and develop resilience. Of course At its most basic, a natural playground is defined as an outdoor area where children play with natural elements. hhs. As with the initial study, the results suggest few injuries. Forty teachers from each country were asked to complete a questionnaire with five questions concerning their beliefs about children’s play. The survey examined demographics, details of tree climbing activities, and the type of injuries that have resulted from this type of risky play. (2010) examined similarities and differences in early childhood teachers’ beliefs about play in three different nations: Sweden, Japan, and the United States. Climbing also provides a thrilling experience that feels risky to kids. When kids engage in physical exercise like climbing on a rock wall, tree wall, or other climbing structures, they get a full-body workout that builds strength, coordination, and balance. Discover how tree climbing fosters essential skills and a love for the outdoors in early childhood. These activities provide a sense of fun, enjoyment and excitement, and children thrive on them. Giving them A study by Izumi-Taylor et al. Climbing pushes children and makes them want to achieve more, which is a skill useful in every aspect of their lives. According to Chawla and Flanders Cushing (2007), education for children, families, educators and the community This study examined the benefits and risks associated with tree climbing on child development and resiliency. Meaningful contact with nature (a dynamic and varied source of informal learning) during the early Jan 24, 2024 · The benefits of outdoor play in early childhood are far-reaching, impacting physical, cognitive, social, and emotional domains of development. When children are given a chance to take developmentally-appropriate risks while playing, they can learn to: that cannot be replicated indoors. ” -Study on the benefits and risks of tree-climbing Tree climbing also develops skills that transfer to other activities and sports. Longitudinal studies now confirm the economic, academic, and social importance of high-quality early childhood education. Research Benefits and risks of tree climbing on child development and resiliency 10 Carla Gull, University of Phoenix, USA Suzanne Goldstein, University of Phoenix, USA Tricia Rosengarten, University of Phoenix, USA Research Benefits and risks of tree climbing on child development and resiliency 10 Carla Gull, University of Phoenix, USA Suzanne Goldstein, University of Phoenix, USA Tricia Rosengarten, University of Phoenix, USA Tree climbing is one aspect of nature play; however, it is limited in many areas due to fear of liability, heightened safety awareness, unclear policies, accessibility, and restrictive outdoor play time. PDF | On Jan 1, 2011, Ellen Beate Hansen Sandseter published CHILDREN’S RISKY PLAY IN EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION AND CARE | Find, read and cite all the research you need on ResearchGate Nov 11, 2020 · For more reading about the benefits of climbing trees for children, and outdoor play experiences in general, read Balanced and Barefoot: How Unrestricted Outdoor Play Makes for Strong, Confident, and Capable Children by Angela J. In early childhood, and as we refer to it in this article, a risk is viewed as a challenge or uncertainty that a child recognizes in their environment before they determine whether to engage with it or not. An adventure for all ages, the garden provides opportunities for young children to build strong connections with caring adults and their communities and can be found in many settings including child care centers, early childhood classrooms and at home. The recommendations from that study mentioned that 93% of the responses originally came from mothers; hence, the need to look specifically at fathers’ views The following resource is a compilation of current literature that captures the importance and benefits of outdoor, nature-based play in early childhood education programming, and highlights the role of risky play in children’s development. This study investigated current practices concerning tree climbing in early childhood settings with the objective of creating recommendations, best practices, and a tool kit for incorporating Play is so important for young children’s health, development, and well-being that it is called out as a special right of all children in the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child. Hanscom. This article explores the myriad benefits of outdoor play for young children, emphasizing why it should be a prioritized component of early childhood development. The Four Types of Play in Early Childhood Play is essential for children’s growth and development. . Today’s parents, uncertain as to how they will be perceived by others, may err on the side of caution rather than risk2 In many early childhood settings, such as family child care programs, preschools, nature preschools, and elementary schools, educators and administrators have found ways to embrace tree climbing, as they recognize the benefits outweigh the risks. As a parent, you can support your child’s gross motor growth by encouraging outdoor a number of common barriers to embracing play and outdoor learning in the lives of young chil-dren and “troubleshoots” these scenarios based on best practices in communities and research evidence. One key benefit is physical development. The results indicated It’s impossible to overstate the benefits of play, and while any kind of play is great, climbing has a special role in child development. Children in kindergarten use climbing skills to explore and test their environment as they grow. Abstract This article is a condensed version of the author’s research which explores the relationship between imaginative play and creativity in education, and examines the structures, approaches, benefits, and obstacles surrounding the topic of imaginative play and creativity. It specifies 11 categories of a high-quality outdoor play space and gives examples of elements and the types of The following resource is a compilation of current literature that captures the importance and benefits of outdoor, nature-based play in early childhood education programming, and highlights the role of risky play in children’s development. These skills—running, jumping, climbing, and balancing—are fundamental to a child’s physical development, coordination, and overall health. International Journal of Early Childhood Environmental Education. He also shares reflections and tips that can apply to any setting. The National Association of Early Childhood Specialists in the State Departments of Education, “An elimination of recess during throughout the United States. At the same time, a substantial body of research indicates that an outdoor learning and play environment with diverse natural elements advances and enriches all of the domains relevant to the development, health, and wellbeing of young children. As well as considering how health and safety issues are understood and Think back to your fondest memories of childhood. As they continue to gain experience with risky play, children can help identify when certain situations may be unsafe, and brainstorm how to make something safer. Research Benefits and risks of tree climbing on child development and resiliency 10 Carla Gull, University of Phoenix, USA Suzanne Goldstein, University of Phoenix, USA Tricia Rosengarten, University of Phoenix, USA Benefits of Tree Climbing Climbing is an activity that children enjoy from an early age. This paper will focus on issues and opportunities at multiple levels: families, program providers, policymakers, and community-members. Being outdoors, especially in natural outdoor learning environments, provides the opportunity for open-ended interactions, spontaneity, exploration, discovery, risk-taking, and connection with nature. May 13, 2024 · However, to date, no study has looked systematically at the overall literature addressing the benefits nature plays in early childhood education, primarily through outdoor learning or time spent Tree climbing is one aspect of nature play; however, it is limited in many areas due to fear of liability, heightened safety awareness, unclear policies, accessibility, and restrictive outdoor play time. Below are the four types of play most commonly observed in preschool-aged children, along with examples and benefits. This study investigated current practices concerning tree climbing in early childhood settings with the objective of creating recommendations, best practices, and a tool kit for incorporating In countries, such as Norway, where valuing the natural environment is part of the culture (Fjørtoft & Sageie, 2000), many early childhood settings provide children with a vast array of experiences, such as hiking, climbing trees, and water activities in natural outdoor environments. Jan 31, 2025 · As I’ve documented in my decade of early years teaching, the cross-lateral movements required in tree climbing activate neural pathways that support cognitive development, particularly in mathematical and spatial reasoning skills. Early childhood educators’ perspective on tree climbing. Hanrahan V, Aspden K, McLaughlin T. These natural elements include things such as the rocks, sand, water, and plants (British Columbia Recreation and Parks Association, 2015; Kuh, Ponte, & Chau, 2013). ohs. The word ‘risk’ is often associated with negative outcomes, but in terms of children’s play, it’s important to understand that risky play is not about Sep 20, 2024 · Early childhood (0–8 years) is a time of rapid brain development supported by spontaneous and informal learning from the surrounding environment. The results indicated Benefits Climbing is an activity that children enjoy from an early age. ABSTRACT Tree climbing is one aspect of nature play; however, it is limited in many areas due to fear of liability, heightened safety awareness, unclear policies, accessibility, and restrictive outdoor play time. A list of ten potential benefits of natural play from the literature is also included. This policy is being implemented with the advent of increased school accountability and student testing procedures, and the belief that time could be better spent on academics. Aug 3, 2022 · Children afforded the opportunity to be involved in risky play such as tree climbing grow socially, emotionally, physically, cognitively, and creatively, and have increased resiliency. As early years professionals, we witness this daily in our nurseries and settings. Climbing Trees, Risk, and Relationships: Using Nature to Empower Children In this piece, author Ron Grady takes us on a journey of one day in the life of a nature-based preschool. For some children they will have a sense of being allowed to do something Keywords: connection to nature, nature experiences, early childhood, outdoor education, risk taking, childhood experience, environmental education Environmental sustainability is a growing global concern, as humans are currently living beyond the available resources in the world. As educators, parents, and caregivers, recognizing the significance of nature’s playground is not just a choice but a commitment to providing children with a holistic and enriching foundation for life. Climbing is a unique activity that engages multiple parts of the brain and helps kids develop skills like spatial awareness, hand-eye coordination and even working memory. Oct 22, 2022 · The following provides parents and educators with some key information that will help them understand the benefits of risky play and to give them the knowledge needed to identify when risky play becomes dangerous. A follow-up mixed method survey instrument was administered to fathers of children aged 3-13 that climb trees, examining background information, rules and restrictions on tree climbing, injuries, and fathers’ attitudes on allowing children to climb trees. In outdoor settings, children generally move more, sit less and engage in play for more sustained periods. Jul 29, 2024 · Climbing and physical play are essential components of a child's development, offering numerous benefits that contribute to their overall well-being. Climbing trees also stimulates the senses. It also supports healthy bone growth and can improve heart health May 21, 2024 · Before discussing the benefits of risk taking, it is important to note the difference between risk and hazard. Being off the ground provides children with the opportunity to challenge themselves whilst having fun and exercise. Most children will climb just about anything: rocks and boulders, climbing walls, jungle gyms, furniture, and trees! Taking risks is also an important part of outdoor play. Jun 3, 2024 · Listen to this story | Subscribe on Apple Podcasts Below, we dive into just some of these benefits to learn why tree climbing is not only an early childhood best practice, but an enduring and beloved part of the Beginning School experience. Climbing trees brings children into close contact with nature and some children will find being in trees calms them. It is not a definitive roadmap/playbook, but rather a field Early childhood (0–8 years) is a time of rapid brain development supported by spontaneous and informal learning from the surrounding environment. This study investigated current practices concerning tree climbing in early childhood settings with the objective of creating recommendations, best practices, and a tool kit for Recognizing the importance of outdoor play for young children's healthy growth, a project focused on the exploration of the outdoor environment was developed with a group of young children in an Mar 11, 2021 · Benefits of Climbing Trees in Early Childhood Learning The connection between children and climbing involves more than curiosity. From physical development and problem-solving skills to confidence building and fostering a love for nature, tree climbing provides an enriching and holistic experience. This study investigated current practices concerning tree climbing in early childhood settings with the objective of creating recommendations, best practices, and a tool kit for ABSTRACT This study examined the benefits and risks associated with tree climbing on child development and resiliency. The results indicated Oct 18, 2024 · Explore the benefits of tree climbing for preschoolers! This fun, adventurous activity supports physical development, enhances coordination, and builds confidence. Physical Development Climbing offers kids many physical and mental benefits, even from a young age. Inspired by zoom Types and Stages of Play in the Early Years Play is the cornerstone of early childhood development. Despite these findings, the Risky play involves thrilling, exciting and physically challenging activities like climbing, jumping, balancing or rough-and-tumble play. What comes to mind? I would bet that most of you would talk about that time you made a tree house with your dad, or long summer days playing in the woods, climbing trees, and running through the nearby creek unsupervised for hours on end. This emphasis on outdoor learning is further underscored by its inclusion in the Finnish National Core Curriculum for Early Childhood Education and Care (FNBE 2022). Most children will climb just about anything: rocks and boulders, climbing walls, jungle gyms, furniture, and trees! Dec 14, 2018 · This article draws on a small survey of Auckland-area early childhood services to explore “tree climbing as curriculum”. Physical Development Climbing and physical play help children develop their gross motor skills, which involve large Gardening with Young Children Gardening engages kids by providing a dynamic environment to observe, discover, experiment, nurture and learn. For example, if there is a large rock they want to climb but there are thorn bushes at the bottom, you might ask your child what they could do about that - how they might solve the problem in order to keep their body safe. Depending on the location and design of the outdoor Enhance Gross Motor Skills Young children are naturally active learners, and outdoor spaces provide the perfect environment to develop essential gross motor skills. Children today play outside less often and for May 21, 2025 · Home » News » Climbing Trees and Childhood Development: The Power of Nature-Based Play Climbing trees has long been a hallmark of childhood adventure, offering more than just fun—it shapes physical, cognitive, and emotional growth. Many children today, however, do not have these experiences. Sep 20, 2024 · Early childhood (0–8 years) is a time of rapid brain development supported by spontaneous and informal learning from the surrounding environment. Nancy Loftus, Berwick Academy – Lead Pre-K Teacher BA Elementary Education, Boston College Mar 20, 2024 · As you can see, climbing trees is much more than simple play as it opens the door to a world of hidden benefits for children. 2020;8 (1). Among these, nature-based education stands out for its profound impact on children’s physical, cognitive, social, and emotional growth. Understanding the different types of play can help caregivers and educators create meaningful opportunities for learning and fun. ABSTRACT This study examined the benefits and risks associated with tree climbing on child development and resiliency. This educational approach integrates outdoor activities and natural environments into the learning This study examined the benefits and risks associated with tree climbing on child development and resiliency. Meaningful contact with nature (a dynamic and varied source of informal learning) during the early years of life sets up rich scopes for such spontaneous learning—especially in the first three years, a period in life that determines all future The benefits of tree climbing are enormous. In the rapidly evolving field of early childhood education, innovative approaches are continually emerging to foster the holistic development of young minds. 1. acf. We live in a culture that’s overwhelmingly risk-averse, but you don’t The article provides a review of tree-climbing policy, the trends toward limiting children’s access to tree-climbing due to fear of injury or liability, and a literature review of the impacts of engaging in risk-taking play. Meaningful contact with nature (a dynamic and The survey, which can be downloaded at Head Start’s Early Childhood Knowledge and Learning Center (ECKLC) website (https://eclkc. Despite decades of research highlighting its benefits, play is disappearing from early childhood classrooms across the nation. Dec 5, 2023 · Outdoor learning, therefore, constitutes a significant component of Finnish early childhood education and care (ECEC) content and practices, despite cold climate conditions. Many adults may remember the days of their childhood when they turned to nature to play: climbing on a rock, walking Jun 13, 2019 · It seems that concerns about the dangers of climbing trees or getting lost means that many parents are nervous about allowing their children to engage in risky play. Playing safe: Factors that enable, or challenge teachers to support safe risk-taking for young children as they transition into, or within an early childhood setting. This might be climbing a tree, running very fast, playing near water, playing hide-and-seek in the park, or play-wrestling. gov, search for Play Space Assessment), shows diferent levels of imple-mentation to help guide improvement plans for outdoor play spaces. Feb 28, 2025 · Discover the benefits outdoor play offers young learners and how to incorporate outdoor play into early childhood education. It's not just fun; it's crucial for learning, growth, and well-being. Dec 2, 2020 · In recent years there has been growing concern about children’s access to outdoor play, particularly the extent to which an over-emphasis on safety and general risk-aversion has impacted many childhood play experiences that previous generations took for granted1. Tree climbing is a classic risky play activity in childhood. In many early childhood settings, such as family child care programs, preschools, nature preschools, and elementary schools, educators and administrators have found ways to embrace tree climbing, as they recognize the benefits outweigh the risks. Tree climbing helps early learners develop risk tolerance and risk management. Who hasn’t climbed a tree as a kid? ABSTRACT This study examined the benefits and risks associated with tree climbing on child development and resiliency. A mixed method survey instrument was administered to parents of children aged 3-13 years who climbed trees. Encouraging children to engage in these activities can have profound effects on their physical, cognitive, and social growth. The photo collection is a reflection on the ponderings throughout the author’s project research.