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Tuesday 11 March 2025

The Benefits of Outdoor Play for Toddlers

By Lisa Gill

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At Maltman’s Green, in Gerrards Cross, Buckinghamshire, we know that outdoor play is essential for the physical, emotional, and intellectual development of toddlers. In today’s digital world, getting outside and interacting with nature is more important than ever for your child. Outdoor play provides toddlers with opportunities to explore, experiment, and develop important skills, while also supporting their overall wellbeing. 

What are the benefits of outdoor play for toddlers?

  1. Physical Development: Outdoor play helps children build essential motor skills. Activities like running, climbing, and jumping improve coordination, balance, and strength. Being outside encourages toddlers to be more active, helping to develop their physical abilities in a way that indoor play cannot match. At Maltman’s Green we set up your girl for the best with our top outdoor facilities like our private woodland and Titan climbing frames. 
  2. Boosts Immunity: Exposure to fresh air and natural elements strengthens children’s immune systems. Regular outdoor time is linked to fewer illnesses and a stronger immune response, which is critical in the early years. 
  3. Encourages Independence: Outdoor environments offer toddlers the chance to make their own choices. Whether it’s deciding which path to take or which game to play, outdoor play encourages independence, confidence, and problem-solving. 
  4. Promotes Social Interaction: Outdoor spaces often involve group play, which fosters social development. Toddlers learn how to communicate, share, and cooperate with others in a more open and relaxed environment, helping them to build friendships and enhance their social skills. 
  5. Supports Emotional Wellbeing: Being outside has a calming effect on young children. Natural surroundings can reduce stress, boost mood, and improve overall emotional wellbeing. For toddlers, outdoor play is not only about burning energy but also about finding moments of peace and joy in nature. In our private woodland in Gerrards Cross, Buckinghamshire. The early years girls are able to explore endlessly, discovering nature and building relationships. 

At Maltman’s Green, we ensure that outdoor play is a regular part of our Early Years curriculum. From our woodland school to our spacious outdoor areas, we provide children with numerous opportunities to engage with nature and enjoy the outdoors. We even have two climbing frames, The Titan and Mini Titan, to offer fun, physical challenges and exploration that support both physical development and teamwork. Want to learn more about our approach to outdoor play? Visit us at our next open day or subscribe to our Baby Hub for more tips on child development. 

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