Skip to main content
Buitenspeeltips
Blog 14 August 2025

7 Outdoor Play Tips for Children Aged 0 to 13 (and Why Playing Outside Is So Important)

Playing outside is an important part of childhood at any age. Whether children have just learned to walk or are about to start secondary school, being active and playing outdoors stimulates their motor skills, self-confidence, and social abilities.

In deze blog delen we 7 leuke en praktische buitenspeeltips die je gemakkelijk thuis, in de kinderopvang of op school kunt doen. Zo help je kinderen spelenderwijs te groeien, van baby tot tiener.

1. Chalk Treasure Hunt – Creative and Active Outdoor Play

Create a treasure hunt with arrows, shapes, and tasks, for example, “Hop like a frog” or “Run to the tree.” Fun for both younger and older children to play and move together.

2. Nature Bingo – Learning Playfully Outdoors

Make a bingo card with natural elements: leaves, birds, stones, flowers. Children of all ages can search and check them off, training their observation skills.

3. Water Fun with Cups – Sensory and Refreshing Outdoor Play

Younger children can enjoy playing with water using plastic cups, buckets, and spoons. Older children can turn it into water games or experiments. Water play stimulates fine motor skills and curiosity.

4. Build an Obstacle Course – Boost Gross Motor Skills and Confidence

Create a course using cushions, chairs, ropes, or natural elements. Let children climb, crawl, jump, and balance. This challenges all ages and supports strength and coordination.

5. Throwing Games – Hand-Eye Coordination and Fun

Have children knock over cans or cups with balls or socks. This simple game is fun and educational for all ages, focusing on concentration and teamwork.

6. Follow the Leader – Movement Game with Imagination

Play “Follow the Leader” together with actions like jumping, sneaking, or dancing. It stimulates body awareness, creativity, and social interaction.

7. Quiet Outdoor Play – Space for Relaxation

Being outside isn’t always about active movement. Sometimes it’s important that children just sit, watch the clouds, or listen to birds. Lay down a blanket, watch the clouds, listen to birds. This type of play is also valuable, helping with emotional calm and concentration.

Why Outdoor Play Is So Important for Children

Playing outside promotes physical health, social skills, and emotional well-being. At our childcare centers, we deliberately make time and space for this every single day.

Buitenspeeltips