We chat to outdoor play expert Claire from Creative Play, who reveals how improving the quality of physical activities can support child development and long-term nursery goals. 

For nursery managers and other early years practitioners, creating an environment that encourages physical activity isn’t just good for children – it’s essential for the success and reputation of your setting. And in the face of busy schedules, safeguarding considerations, and space limitations, including more movement can feel challenging.

But prioritising active play is an investment that pays off in multiple ways.

Since 1991 Creative Play has worked with nurseries and early years providers across the UK to design outdoor spaces that inspire active play and holistic child development. We understand that play areas can be powerful tools to support the EYFS framework and create environments where every child can thrive.

Why it matters for your nursery 

Physical activity in the early years isn’t just about helping children burn energy. It supports key gross motor skills like balance, coordination, and spatial awareness, laying the foundation for lifelong learning. Movement-rich play also nurtures confidence, resilience, and self-esteem – qualities that align perfectly with preparing children for school. 

“Nursery outdoor play areas should feel like an invitation to move,” says Claire, play advisor at Creative Play. “It’s about creating spaces that challenge children physically in safe, imaginative ways.” 

And there are broader benefits for nurseries too…

Boost engagement and learning outcomes
Active children are more engaged and ready to learn. Outdoor play that supports movement helps children regulate their emotions and builds focus required for thriving in other areas of nursery life. 

Enhance reputation
Parents and carers increasingly value nurseries that champion physical activity. By investing in thoughtfully designed outdoor play, you’re sending a clear message that you’re committed to children’s holistic development and wellbeing. 

Alignment with EYFS and Ofsted priorities 

Ofsted places high importance on physical development in the early years. Demonstrating how your outdoor space actively supports this can contribute to showing that your setting goes above and beyond to nurture the whole child. 

Outdoor design that promotes active movement 

As a trusted specialist in outdoor play spaces, Creative Play recommends thinking about your playground as an extension of the curriculum – a place that invites children to move in varied and imaginative ways. 

Vary the levels
Include equipment at different heights – from low-level balance beams to small tunnel mounds – naturally encourage children to climb, crawl, and adjust their balance. These activities are crucial for developing gross motor skills – alongside a sense of adventure! 

Encourage multiple routes
Equipment like trim trails or pieces with different entry and exit points invite children to explore their own way through a space. ‘This not only supports physical development but also builds problem-solving skills and independence,’ says Claire.

 Incorporate natural materials
Wooden structures offer a more calming environment than some other materials, reinforcing a connection to nature – a powerful motivator for exploration.

Practical steps for nursery managers 

Questions to ask yourself for incorporating more physical activity: 

• Does your outdoor space offer a mix of movement challenges?
Look for ways to layer in balance, climbing, and crawling elements to keep children engaged.

 • Are your current physical activity opportunities accessible to all children?
By working with experienced outdoor play experts like Creative Play, you can ensure your play area design is inclusive and maximises physical development for all children. Sometimes, equipment that may look appealing doesn’t spark children’s interest – and if it isn’t used, is just taking up valuable space. 

“Every nursery is different,” says Claire. “We love working with managers to create outdoor spaces that truly reflect their ethos. If your approach is child-led and holistic, your play space can reinforce this by offering safe risks and choice-filled areas that encourage children of all abilities to test their physical skills in a supported environment.” 

A lasting impact on children’s development 

By focusing on outdoor spaces that promote active movement, you’re investing not just in your setting’s facilities, but in children’s health, happiness, and future. Thoughtful design of play areas can transform even small spaces into hubs of adventure, supporting the physical, social, and emotional skills children need for lifelong learning. 

“Because we offer a complete outdoor play solution, from consultation, to design and manufacture, and then the installation and even the aftercare,” explains Claire. “Creative Play can work with you to deliver the exact environment for learning, growing, and thriving that your children need, while guaranteeing quality, safety, and service.” 

To explore ideas for your nursery, or to find out how you can introduce more physical activity into your children’s day, visit Creative Play’s website for inspiration and practical resources – or start a conversation about what’s possible in your space.