Early Childhood Nature Play: A Needs Assessment of Minnesota Licensed Childcare Providers

Abstract

Due to a growing body of evidence suggesting nature play experiences support the healthy development of young children, a needs assessment of licensed childcare providers in Minnesota was conducted. The purpose was to inform efforts toward ensuring all young children in Minnesota have the opportunities to gain the benefits nature play offers. Based on the results of a cross-sectional survey of 81 licensed childcare providers, results indicate there is a need to increase the amount of time preschool-aged children are playing outdoors, and specifically playing outdoors in natural areas. Results also suggest a need to increase access (or perceived access) to natural areas, and in particular among those providers who report serving primarily children of a lower socio-economic status (SES). Results suggest respondents recognize the benefits of outdoor play, but there may be a need to raise awareness of the benefits of outdoor play in nature. Key obstacles to be addressed in future efforts to encourage nature play for preschool-aged children include lack of access (perceived access) to natural areas, lack of appropriate clothing, safety/liability concerns, and lack of time. Efforts to reduce obstacles may be of particular importance for providers serving children of lower SES. These results may be used to guide future discussions and actions regarding strategies, policies, and programs for incorporating nature play into childcare programs for preschool-aged children.