It’s cold, damp and dark outside. The last thing most teachers want to do is playground duty, let alone plan an afternoon of outdoor learning.

But if you teach in the early years, you will no doubt understand that most children don’t quite share an adult’s distaste for freezing, murky weather. And, as facilitators of their learning, we should be actively encouraging outdoor play. Not only does it boost learning, but physical development is also crucial for early education. So how do you do it?

Plan it in

Commit to planning for part of any direct teaching input sessions to be delivered in the outdoor environment. Maths is ideal for outdoor learning. Natural resources can be used for both number and shape activities.

Get the right kit

Ensure all children (and adults!) have daily access to warm, waterproof outdoor clothing and footwear.

Get active

Plan for physical activities that raise the heart rate and keep everyone warm. Rig up a stereo for dancing. Ball games also work well.

Get the appropriate fuel

Make flasks of hot chocolate for instant excitement. Children will huddle around to listen to a story with their warm drink.

Science experiments

Take advantage of frosty nights: leave natural objects overnight in play trays filled with water. How has the ice affected the flowers? Why do we put food in a freezer?

Nicky Clements is head of early years at Victoria Academies Trust in the Midlands