The importance of outdoor exploratory play
If you’re fortunate enough to call this beautiful part of the world home, then spending time outdoors – breathing in the fresh air and enjoying nature – is likely a key part of your life. That’s why it’s so important to help our children discover the joy of being outside and exploring the natural world.
We recently caught up with Ruth, founder of The Play Patch – nature-based play sessions for toddlers and their grown-ups, rooted in nurture, nature and connection – to discuss why outdoor play matters, the benefits it brings and to give a glimpse into her business.
What inspired you to start your business?
“I’m a former Primary Teacher who decided to take a career break after having my son. I wanted to find something that would feed my passion for building connections and nurturing children’s development, while still allowing me to spend more time with him.
“Since starting The Play Patch, I’ve seen a huge shift in my son’s confidence and learning – seeing that growth first-hand has strengthened my belief in the power of play, community and nature.
“I have a deep passion for supporting little ones as they grow and learn outdoors. My teaching ethos is centred on well-being, both physical and mental, and I absolutely love planning open-ended play experiences that reflect the many play schemas we observe in young children. I regularly adapt and reflect on what works best in our environment to meet their needs.
“Being outside in nature offers countless benefits for both children and adults. The aim of our sessions is to create a welcoming, relaxed space for child-led free play, where children can explore at their own pace and parents can connect with others, experiencing the ease and joy of parenting outdoors.”
Could you tell us about the types of sessions you offer and who they’re suitable for?
“At The Play Patch, toddlers and their grown-ups enjoy 90 minutes of outdoor, nature-based play designed to nurture curiosity, creativity and connection. Each session, based in Udny Station just 15 minutes from Bridge of Don and Ellon, follows a seasonal theme and features a variety of open-ended activities that encourage child-led exploration and learning. Our sessions are best suited for children who are walking up to around 3 1⁄2 years old, though we understand that every child develops at their own pace, so the age range is flexible.”
Scotland is known for its unpredictable weather - how do you embrace the elements in your sessions?
“Our sessions are entirely outdoors and run all year round. We love the saying, “there’s no such thing as bad weather, only inappropriate clothing!” While we embrace every season, we also make sure little ones are as comfortable as possible, particularly during the colder months.
“In winter, our sessions adapt slightly with more movement-based songs and activities to help keep bodies warm and active. Although each session lasts 90 minutes, families are always welcome to leave earlier if it’s very cold, wet or close to nap time.
“At The Play Patch, we encourage a positive attitude towards all weather. Instead of saying, “yuck, what a wet, rainy day,” we like to think, “wow, it’s very wet today – perfect for puddle jumping and rain dancing!”
Why do you think outdoor, exploratory play is so important for a child’s development?
“At The Play Patch, we believe that outdoor, exploratory play is essential for children’s development. Research strongly supports the benefits of outdoor play as it has shown that it nurtures their well-being, focus, curiosity and resilience. When children are outdoors, they form meaningful connections with the world around them, and develop a deeper sense of curiosity and confidence - helping to shape who they become as they grow and develop.
“The benefits of outdoor play are endless. Children can boost their physical development through activities like climbing, running and balancing, while exposure to nature supports a healthy immune system. It sparks imagination and creativity, encourages problem-solving and social skills, and helps build confidence and resilience as they take manageable risks and test boundaries. Being outside also promotes calm and focus, lifting moods for both children and parents – it’s no wonder parenting often feels a little easier outdoors!”
“I believe the real difference between outdoor and indoor play is that being and learning outdoors offers endless opportunities for children while celebrating each child’s uniqueness and individual learning style. Outdoor play supports every aspect of development – from physical health and growth to social, emotional and cognitive well-being. It strengthens immunity, encourages curiosity and allows children to learn and play at their own pace.
“In today’s fast-paced world, toddlers often crave moments of slowness. Being outdoors gives us all the chance to slow down, step away from the constant distractions of the indoors and simply find some calm together.”
“Spending time outdoors exposes children to a wider range of natural microbes, helping to build and strengthen their immune systems in a healthy, balanced way. Time in nature also promotes calmness and supports emotional regulation, contributing significantly to overall mental well-being.
“We often hear from parents that when their children spend more time outdoors, they sleep better, appear happier and are more resilient to everyday illnesses. These benefits reflect what research consistently shows – that outdoor play supports not only children’s physical health but also their capacity to thrive. Nature is truly magical!”