13 Conclusion

Throughout this course, we hope that you were able to learn more about and reflect on the diverse and complex relationships between humans and nature in order to deepen your understanding of how outdoor play spaces can be designed with this in mind to support children’s play, learning, holistic development, and well-being.

As adults working with young children, it is important to understand the impacts our own relationships and understandings have on children’s engagement with and in the outdoors and nature. In order to holistically support them and nurture their relationship with the natural world, it is crucial to maintain an element of reflection yourself as you continue your own journey with the outdoors and nature and your practice in the field of early childhood education and care.