What is Risky Outdoor Play?

Children’s outdoor play almost always includes taking risks. Risky play helps children practice decision-making and self-care. Risk taking can have positive outcomes and is essential for healthy child development, like when learning to walk, or ride a bike. Responsible supervision involves identifying and managing hazards, so children can freely engage with risk taking within co-established limits.

Learning Objective: Recognize the importance of outdoor risky play and see what it can look like in the school context.