Routledge Learning Outdoors: Improving the Quality of Young Children's Play Outdoors

Product Description It is now officially acknowledged that outdoor play is extremely important for young children's development and that a few old bikes and a climbing frame just will not do. This book shows how to develop an outdoor learning environment properly for young children and how adult supporters should behave in this space. This book offers examples of good outdoor practice in a range of early years settings. Both practical and theoretical aspects of learning outdoors are covered, tracking a shared enthusiasm for outdoor play amongst practitioners, children and parents. The book shows how the authors set about solving common problems encountered in the outdoor area, and, using photographs, plans and written observations, the book shows how stimulating outdoor learning environments can be created. About the Author Bilton is with Open University. Karen James has run a successful virtual assistant business, Cloud VA, since 2004, providing administrative support to small businesses across the UK (and in France & Spain!). Karen spent 16 years as a Secretary before going back to college at the age of 32 to gain a Degree in Business Management and a Promotional Practice qualification from the Chartered Institute of Marketing. After three years as a Marketing Manager for a small pub chain, redundancy prompted her to look at self-employment and Cloud VA was born. Having built up a solid reputation as a virtual assistant it made sense to add social media marketing support to Cloud VA's services. She has helped many business owners set up their social media accounts, giving them practical advice in simple terms on a one-to-one basis and in a workshop setting. She also helps clients develop social media plans that integrate with their marketing strategy helping them to build brand awareness and generate leads online. Karen is passionate about giving small businesses the tools and knowledge they need to use social media as part of their promotional mix.