Promoting children's risky play in outdoor learning environments

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. Today’s parents, uncertain as to how they will be perceived by others, may err on the side of caution rather than risk2. Teachers, in turn, may limit children’s access to risk-taking opportunities citing their ‘duty of care’, fearing they could be blamed should injuries occur (no matter how minor); some simply prefer not to take a chance3. However, children need to take risks in the context of play to promote their learning and development. The risks and challenges of being outdoors provide rich opportunities for learning and problem-solving. In this context, children are drawn to experiences that allow them to test the limits of their physical, intellectual and emotional development.