News
Out Loud: Outdoors, children can lose their inhibitions when it comes to reading, writing and talking - and the right mix of resources can help
1 Apr 2009
According to Helen Bromley, many children feel more confident talking outdoors, in an environment free from the tyranny of tables and chairs. She believes that young children's vocabulary, imagination and natural curiosity can all be enhanced significantly by time spent in the company of supportive adults, who can recognise and exploit the potential of this rich environment.
Similarly to being indoors, young children will need a variety of contexts in which to talk outdoors. Opportunities for talk about emotions and changes in the environment are possible when children are able to be outside in all weathers. Bromley reminds us to include poetry, rhyme and song in outdoor talk. She says: "Bathing children in the rhythmic tunes of such language not only enhances vocabulary and develops listening skills, but also brings an exuberant physicality to literacy that is not always practicable indoors."
(Nursery World, April 09)
