Why are the children not outdoors? Factors supporting and hindering outdoor play in Greek public day-care centres

Abstract

Even though outdoor play is positively linked to children’s well-being, health, development and learning, children’s opportunities to play outside have reduced in recent years. This survey study (n = 662) examines preschool educators’ views and practice, aiming to gain a better understanding of the factors that affect play within child care and to shed more light on whether children’s outdoor play needs are adequately met. The physical environment of the day-care centres, the educators’ attitudes and the policy context were found to influence outdoor play. Limited time outdoors was indicated. Lack of suitable space, followed by health and safety concerns were the main factors suggested to hinder children’s play. The physical environment, the materials available and the educators’ role were the key factors proposed to enhance children’s play. This study could be informative to countries facing similar challenges and could support the development of training, educational materials, play-promotion programmes and policy development.