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TOPIC 2 DIMENSIONS OF YOUNG CHILDREN’S SETTING 
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Both large and small toys in outdoor environment facilitate childrenÊs social, language and cognitive development. A variety of outdoor equipment such as swings, tree house, balance beam and slide will create interest and excitement in young children. These materials not only provide children with play experience, but also provide opportunities for exposure to the outdoor environment and experience climate change, sun, and shadow and landscape elements. Table 2.3 gives suggestions on outdoor materials and equipment that can be used in an early childhood setting.
Table 2.3: Outdoor Materials and Equipment in Early Childhood Setting
Play houses and hut
Play houses and nest-like hut structures made from trees provide opportunities for children to develop their physical, social and language skills. Children enjoy these types of play space and the opportunities to play with their peers.
Trees for climbing
Small trees give children the opportunity to climb, balance and transfer weight. Climbing also gives children the opportunity to take risks and gain greater control over their large motor muscles.
Balancing beam and rolling mounds
Give children the opportunity to develop stability skills such as balancing and rolling. Locomotor skills such as running, jumping, skipping and sliding down the slope enable children to experience space and various forces of movement.
Plant gardens
Children can grow plants with adults such as vegetables and flowers to witness the life cycle of plants in gardens. Plants also provide aesthetic features to the outdoor space. Children can also discover and explore a variety of textures and smells from plants. Growing vegetables promote an appreciation for eating fresh produce, especially when children have a sense of responsibility in growing the vegetables or fruits.
Sand play
Ample sand areas provide room for children to explore and discover the qualities of sand or mud through peer interaction. This area (see Figure 2.9) allows children to sit or stand around the containers to play with the sand. Sand play helps children to develop nonlocomotor skills, such as bending and squatting as they dig and play in the sand. Soil digging affords children different tactile experiences and the chance to discover insects and earthworms.
Water play features
Temporary and portable water features can be provided at this area such as a hose, a small wading pool or a water table. Water play features can be permanent features such as water fountain or small water pond with a mini waterfall. These features can be used to invite children to do water exploration during outside play.
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