Book excerpt: There is now a growing appreciation of the importance and value of learning through play outdoors. In a world where it is perceived that children can no longer ‘play out’ freely and safely Playing and Learning Outdoors shows early years practitioners how to pay more attention to making the most of the outdoors for the enjoyment, health and education of children from three to five years. This book will allow practitioners to develop rich and stimulating outdoor play provision in Early Years settings and enable you to feel confident to offer wonderful play experiences outdoors. Playing and Learning Outdoors offers practitioners achievable advice and support, based on approaches which are appropriate and effective for young children’s all-round well-being and development. The book includes practical advice on: movement and physical play playing with sand, natural materials and water plants, living things and growing construction, creative and imaginative play. Filled with advice and support, this lively, inspiring and accessible book will help practitioners to develop a truly practical and enjoyable approach to learning through play outdoors. With over twenty years’ experience in education, Jan White is an Education Consultant for Outdoor Provision in the Early Years and is currently associate consultant with Early Excellence and associate lecturer at Sheffield Hallam University.