


At daycare, stepping outside isn't just about burning energy or "extra fun time"—it’s a powerful way to spark growth across key developmental domains it’s an essential part of your child’s development.
Pennsylvania’s Learning Standards for Early Childhood emphasize that outdoor and active experiences are vital for holistic development—encompassing physical, social–emotional, language, cognitive, and creative learning.
** Building Strong Bodies & Coordination**
The standards highlight gross motor skills—like running, climbing, jumping, throwing, and catching—as central to healthy physical development. Outdoor play gives children plentiful space to explore these skills through movement and play, under supportive adult supervision.
** Learning Through Real-World Exploration**
Being outdoors isn’t just fun—it’s an immersive classroom. Nature invites questions, experimentation, and curiosity. Whether counting leaves, observing bird feeders, or navigating a simple obstacle course, children integrate math, language, science, and social skills naturally—just as the standards encourage.
** Promoting Safety & Well-Being**
Pennsylvania standards don’t just encourage outdoor time—they stress “weather-permitting” safety. Caregivers are reminded to plan active outdoor experiences while ensuring conditions are safe and appropriate.
** Engaging Multiple Domains at Once**
From sensory and creative play to problem-solving and social learning, outdoor time supports integrated, play-based experiences—exactly what Pennsylvania’s framework recommends for meaningful learning.
PA Learning Standards for Early Childhood - https://www.pakeys.org/.../uploads/2025/04/2025-PreK-ELS.pdf