The special qualities of the outdoor environment set the stage for unique experiences. Science, for example, comes alive when nature is explored and observed firsthand. Children can watch plants grow and follow the change of seasons. As children see the leaves change color, touch the bark of a tree, hear crickets, taste fruit from a tree or smell the air after a rain shower, they are using all of their senses to learn about the world. Social skills and language develop as children build castles together in the sandbox or work together to carry a heavy pail full of sand or water.
Children also push each other on swings and negotiate compromises about the use of equipment.