Living in a country that’s prone to a lot of wind, rain, and cold temperatures can make outdoor learning feel a bit out of reach. It’s not as easy as hopping outside, there are more practicalities to consider; is it safe? Are we wearing the right clothing? It’s realllllly cold, must we?
The thing is, rain or shine, outdoor learning is incredibly good for us all. Let’s look at some of the benefits of outdoor learning before we dive into our tried and tested ways to stay warm.
Being outdoors increases children and young people’s ability to think creatively and critically
In a fast-changing world, where many of the children will enter careers that simply do not currently exist, we need to teach children to think creatively and critically. This can be hard to do in the strict confines of a classroom. However, it is far easier within the open environment of the outdoors. Being outdoors can help equip our children with the skills they will need.
Being outdoors is shown to improve performance on standardised tests
As a teacher, I knew how amazing my kids were, but that did not always transfer into test results. However, taking children outside for just 20 minutes before a test improves test results. This is due to a range of factors. But would you not like to be able to use a simple tool to enhance your children’s results?
It can improve your enthusiasm for learning
Yes, it may be new and daunting, but seeing how amazing your children are outdoors can motivate you. I will always remember a primary three pupil I taught. He had difficulty spelling his name. He despised writing, and getting much from him took work. Yet outdoors, his imagination came to life, and his confidence shone through in a way it did not in the classroom. I will never forget the glee I felt when he tried to sound out and write “excellent” independently. If that was not motivational to me, I am not sure what it would be!
It can help children develop an increased awareness of sustainability issues
There is no denying that the world is changing, and we need to start looking after it more. Time outside can help children develop an awareness of local and global issues and help develop a sense of place. Compliment this with the critical thinking skills developed outdoors, and we can help create a generation that understands sustainability issues and is interested in them.
It benefits everyone, including the teacher
There is no denying that teaching is a very stressful profession. We make more decisions per minute than a surgeon needs to. Increasing numbers of surveys show teachers are some of the most stressed professionals. Yet it has been shown that 20 minutes outdoors can reduce stress and increase well-being. Teachers need to look after themselves, and taking lessons outdoors can be a way of doing this.
“There are very few initiatives in education that truly benefit the teacher, outdoor learning does.”
The practicalities…staying warm
As a teacher, I loved my skirts and dresses. That meant I needed to think a little about how to stay warm outside. As Alfred Wainwright wrote, “There’s no such thing as bad weather, only unsuitable clothing.”
1. You do not need to spend hours outside. Just 20 minutes three times a week improves learning, health, and well-being. This does not mean you need to head out three times a week (though I would love it if you did), but it does mean that a little time outside is better than none.
2. Layers will keep you warmer. I would throw a thick pair of joggers over my tights and have a cheap pair of waterproof trousers to hand as well. Gloves and a hat can also be invaluable.
3. Think about your feet. If your feet get cold, you will feel miserable. I always kept a pair of wool socks in my desk drawer and a spare pair of wellies with liners.
4. Consider timing. Can you head out immediately before or after breaks? That way, you can have a cuppa (or my preferred hot chocolate) to warm you up before or after being outside.
5. Get involved! You can stand back and watch the children learn or participate in the activities. If you are involved and moving, you will stay warmer!
What to wear…let’s chat clothing
Our simple rule for dressing in cold and very cold weather:
| Cold Day 1-2 layers Waterproof outer layer Warm shoes or boots Wool or natural fibres are preferred | Very Cold Day Everything for a cold day, plus Hat, gloves and scarf 2-3 layers, top and bottoms Warm waterproof boots |
Socks
Years spent outdoors in all weather means we have tried and tested a whole wardrobe of clothing, from high-end expensive pieces to low-cost items that genuinely work.
It may seem basic, but socks can make or break a day outdoors. With skin that easily blisters, comfort is vital. But warmth is also essential – I am miserable if my toes are cold!
A few months ago, I discovered Pairs Socks. They are not cheap, but they are the best I have ever worn! I am yet to blister with them, and they are insanely warm. I have worn them for work but also in motorbike lessons and a Hogmanay campfire and felt warm at them all!
Thermal Trousers
Acai makes fabulous thermal trousers in a wide range of colours. I love how comfortable and stretchy they are – perfect for crouching to the children’s level!
I also love my fleece-lined trousers from Mountain Warehouse. You can often find them on offer, and they work a treat!
Jumpers
The Wildlife Trust have a fantastic range of organic cotton jumpers – I was lucky enough to get this one for Christmas! Not only are you cosy, but you support a great cause.
