Outdoor Play
Outdoor Play Strategy: Phase 2 (2021-2023)
From 2021 to 2023, the Lawson Foundation implemented the second phase of its Outdoor Play Strategy, investing $4.95 million in eight demonstration projects across Canada. These projects aimed to build capacity within Early Learning and Child Care (ELCC) by supporting educators and institutions in embedding outdoor play into their practices.
Phase 2 emphasized adults’ critical role in enabling high-quality outdoor play experiences. It addressed gaps in training and resources, ensuring educators and caregivers were equipped to support outdoor play in licensed child care settings.
Final Report and Knowledge Translation Resources
An evaluation of Phase 2 by Taylor Newberry Consulting captured key learnings from the eight projects, emphasizing the role of values-driven approaches, collaboration, and professional development in promoting high-quality outdoor play.
The final report and additional knowledge translation resources shared below offer insights and recommendations for future efforts, along with practical resources for ELCC professionals and policymakers.
Outdoor Play Strategy 2.0 Full Report
Executive Summary and Press Release
Rapport d’évaluation finale de la Stratégie sur le jeu extérieur 2.0
Résumé Exécutif
Early Childhood Educator Leaders Resource
Ressource pratique pour les professionnels en EPE
Staff Contact
Christine Alden
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Related News and Updates
Taking Relationships into Account: Social Network Analysis of the Outdoor Play Strategy 2.0
The Lawson Foundation is sharing “Taking Relationships into Account: Social Network Analysis of the Outdoor Play Strategy 2.0” by Taylor Newberry Consulting. This companion report to the OPS 2.0 Final Evaluation Report explores how relationships, collaboration, and...
Advancing Outdoor Play in Early Learning: The Power of a Relational, Values-Driven Approach to Building Adult Capacity
The Lawson Foundation is proud to announce the release of "The Power of a Relational, Values-Driven Approach to Building Adult Capacity: Final Evaluation Report of Outdoor Play Strategy 2.0." a comprehensive evaluation highlighting the significant strides made in...
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Outdoor Play Milestone : Canadian Pediatric Society’s position statement on outdoor risky play
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Report | Funding for Outdoor Play in Canada
"Funding for Outdoor Play in Canada" supports funders and grant seekers in finding common ground and building partnerships to advance the multiple issue areas that overlap with outdoor play July 29, 2021 - A new report from The Lawson Foundation and Outdoor Play...
Article | Why the outdoors should be an integral part of every early learning and child-care program
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