Action Research on Effective Ways of Outdoor Play for Three-Year-Old Children in Kindergarten

Abstract

This study was conducted to effectively manage outdoor playtime for 3-year-old children in kindergarten and evaluate their responses. The subjects were 20 3-year-old children and 2 teachers at a private kindergarten in Seoul, Korea. To effectively manage outdoor play for 3-year-old children, the existing outdoor play environment and educational programs were examined for problems, and then the first program was implemented. The first program was developed to support organized planning and operation of outdoor play, diversity in outdoor space, and the growth of 3-year-old children. In the second program, the components of outdoor play areas were modified. Also, relationship building and consideration for others with older children who have much influence on outdoor activities was practiced and performed. As a result, for the children there was an increase in interest and participation in outdoor play, enhanced physical abilities and self-confidence, better peer relationships, and bonding with older children in kindergarten. The results of this study highlight the need for the effective management of outdoor play for 3-year-olds considering the physical and social environment. It is also significant in that it presents a detailed outdoor play program. In addition, the research suggests the need to organize space to improve outdoor play and for the development of age-specific and inter-age outdoor activities.