Multi-sector perspectives on outdoor play in Canada

Abstract

ABSTRACT Increasing opportunities for children’s outdoor play is emerging as a priority for multiple sectors given the associated developmental benefits. This study examined the commonalities of multi-sector leaders’ perspectives on outdoor play in Canada. Despite using diverse terminology to describe play, and controversy about risky play, participants articulated three interrelated elements central to outdoor play: child agency, play-rich environments, and adult support, grounded in a common view of children as competent and capable, and risk as inherent to children’s play. We discuss terminology challenges and the need to better understand the complexities of adult support for outdoor play.