Summer play – Child

Why not take advantage of summer’s clear night skies and warmer temperatures and go camping in your own backyard?! This provides an opportunity for family togetherness and interacting with nature in a different way.

Did you know?

Being “still” is fundamental to emotional regulation. The quiet of the outdoors at night is a perfect opportunity for children to be still and become aware of their feelings.

Add language

Being together outside, away from technology is a natural time to take turns telling stories and encourages imagination and creativity. After the story, try asking your child a couple of simple questions to expand their comprehension and re-tell skills. For example, “What was your favourite part of the story?”, “What happened to the … ?”

Other development

Listening quietly for animal noises such as owls hooting, crickets chirping, or bats flapping their wings helps children to be observant and improves attention and concentration.

Variations

Walk to the nearest hill, viewpoint or just remain in your own backyard to watch the sun rise or set together. Children will love watching the sky change and you can talk about the different colours, the moon, and the sun.

Have you heard about the Nature Play Passport from Nature Play WA?  Discover the various “missions” that children and their families can complete over the summer holidays.

Across the ages

All the activities listed on our “Play Ideas” page can be applied across different age groups. See how backyard exploring can be fun for babies , toddlers and playgroups.

Activities listed under “child” are suitable for children 3 years and older.  Children of this age enjoy more complex activities where they can develop their skills and use their imagination while playing with friends.