Growing time outside

Growing time outside

“The sun is shining in Sheffield and the park is full of lion's teeth.”

There’s something about this point in May – grass left to grow, dandelions scattered through it, everything coming into its full green and feeling a little wilder.

It’s a time to notice what’s already there, or to begin growing something – whether that’s in a garden, an allotment, or a small patch of outdoor space. For many settings, this can be the time when gardening projects begin to take shape.

Over the coming weeks, we’ll be sharing more to support your gardening and growing projects – including practical resources and simple ideas for gardens, allotments and outdoor spaces.

Our what’s on newsletter will also highlight a range of outdoor events coming up through the month.

Wishing you many rich moments in your gardens and growing spaces this May.

Liz Edwards
Director, Muddy Faces

Happy, healthy, thriving

Time outside supports children’s development in many important ways, helping them to be happy, healthy and to thrive.

🌱 Natural light

Spending time outside in full spectrum natural light supports learning, memory and mood, through the production of serotonin – often called a ‘feel-good’ hormone.

🌱 Cool, fresh air

Oxygen-rich air helps children feel more alert. Outdoor environments also support the body to respond naturally to changes in temperature.

🌱 Being active

Space to crawl, roll, run and move freely helps build strength, coordination and the foundations for learning.

🌱 Connecting to nature

Time outdoors supports children to develop a sense of connection with the natural world, often through noticing what might seem small or everyday.

🌱 Vision and healthy eyes

Looking at near and far objects – from tiny details to distant views – supports visual development in ways indoor environments can’t easily replicate.

If you’d like to explore this further, you can find more on the Outdoor Hub

Happy, healthy outdoors
Reflections on the impact of time outdoors on children’s wellbeing and development.

Growing & gardens
Ideas and guidance for developing gardening and growing projects, with practical examples from a range of settings.

Fields of dandelions often open up opportunities for deeper exploration and reflection. You can read more here:

Deep learning with dandelions – part 1
A four-year-old's immersive experience with dandelions.

Deep learning with dandelions – part 2
The story of a dandelion jam adventure – from foraging to eating – and the mistakes & learning along the way.