Across Canada, the changing weather and landscapes in September can add new magical opportunities and experiences for children in their play and learning.  Yes, the air is crisp, the trees become vibrant with various colours, and new natural gifts of nature are available for children to use, such as sticks and leaves dropping to the ground.  As the first hints of autumn appear, imagine what children and adults can discover when they focus on the changing landscape.  

One of the most enchanting aspects in many parts of Canada this time of year is the transformation of the foliage. Trees burst into a kaleidoscope of reds, oranges, and yellows. For children, this can be a time of wonder where they can collect fallen leaves, marvel at their colours, listen to the crispy sounds, and use them in various ways in their imaginative play. Leaf piles become play spaces for jumping, hiding, and creating games with peers.  It may be a time when children decide to adopt a tree where they have engaged in many types of play.  They create a connection to a tree that becomes much more than a tree to them.   

This is the time of year for children and adults to observe the actions of animals preparing for the current and upcoming seasonal conditions. For example, squirrels are busy gathering acorns, birds and butterflies are migrating south, and deer are more active in trying to find food. Observing animals in their habitats contributes to children developing a deeper connection with nature and an understanding of the cycles of life and seasons.

When children spend time outdoors daily, they become aware of how the environment look and feel changes if there is wind, rain, clouds, or sun.  Being outdoors in various weather conditions becomes “teachable discussion moments” between children and adults about the unpredictability of nature. Imagine the conversations with children when they experience a sudden rain shower, a foggy morning, or a bright, sunny afternoon—all on the same day. These varying conditions support children to be adaptable, especially when adults encourage them to embrace with weather experiences.   A rainy day might lead to puddle jumping, while a sunny day invites exploration of shadows and the disappearance of big puddles to muddy places to hard ground.  These scientific discoveries are challenging to learn about indoors; children learn best through experiential opportunities in nature.    

Educators have a crucial role in supporting families in understanding how highly beneficial outdoor play is for children’s overall well-being. Engaging in outdoor play in has numerous physical benefits for children. Combining fresh air, physical activity, and exposure to natural light supports their overall health and well-being. Regular outdoor play can improve cardiovascular health, strengthen coordination, balance, strength, muscles and bones, and boost children’s immune system needed to combat the array of viruses that spread quickly when indoors. Being in nature and natural light has a calming effect on children, while outdoor play is one of the best medicines for promoting language development, and mental health, reducing stress and anxiety while enhancing mood and cognitive functions of children and adults.  

Finally, September’s natural beauty inspires a deep sense of gratitude and respect for the environment. As children play and explore, they develop a connection to the land and a desire to protect it. This connection is vital for fostering environmental stewardship in the next generation. By experiencing the joys of nature firsthand, children are more likely to grow up with a commitment to preserving the natural world for future generations. Remember, children thrive in outdoor spaces while laying the foundation for a lifelong appreciation of the natural world!  

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