With summer just around the corner, many of us will be embracing every opportunity to get outside. And this got us thinking about the importance of outdoor enrichment in nurseries, and why a garden space is one of the most valuable assets you can have as a nursery owner.
Laying down roots
The right property isn’t just a backdrop – it’s a business decision that shapes your offering to families. And outdoor enrichment can set your setting apart – bringing depth to your curriculum, supporting physical development and boosting wellbeing.
The numbers don’t lie. 87% of young people say being in nature makes them very happy. It’s a key part of how they grow, learn and connect with the world around them. It’s therefore little surprise that the Department for Education is placing more emphasis on the importance of outdoor learning in supporting children’s wellbeing.
Urban explorers
Making your location relevant to the needs of your local community is vital. In urban areas, some families may lack access to gardens or nearby parks, so prioritising outdoor enrichment will be a key USP for your nursery.
A garden or outdoor space gives little ones freedom to move, breathe and imagine. It becomes a stage for adventure, a quiet corner for reflection or a messy patch for building dens and discovering.
Five key benefits of outdoor time:
- Promotes physical activity
- Provides sensory stimulation
- Access to fresh air
- Improves motor abilities and co-ordination
- Enhances mental wellbeing
Open air, open minds
And as well as being a visual selling point, a garden is a practical asset that lets you offer more variety in your day.
Outdoor time can support all areas of the early years frameworks. It encourages critical thinking, creativity and imagination, as well as helping children learn about flora and fauna, life cycles, and cause and effect.
At Banana Moon Franchise, we’re committed to providing awe-inspiring, nature-based learning and discovery. Our franchisees are keen to nurture a deeper connection to nature – a vital contrast to the digital world. Our children spend time outdoors daily, regardless of the weather. And of course, during this sunny weather, we ensure access to sunhats, sun creams, shade and plenty of drinking water.
Some of the outdoor activities enjoyed by our children recently include:
- Gardening – planting flowers helps develop motor skills and teaches responsibility and patience.
- Growing their own produce – to give a deeper understanding of where food comes from. We can’t wait to see them enjoy the fruits (and veggies!) of their labour!
- Sports – developing lifelong skills like teamwork and resilience, plus a love of being physically active.
Finding a space that sets you apart
In summary, for prospective nursery owners, choosing a property with a generous, secure outdoor space offers families reassurance, opens up your curriculum and brings daily moments of magic.
From a business perspective, a great outdoor space becomes part of your brand. It builds confidence, feeds curiosity and supports wellbeing in a way that four walls simply can’t match.
At Banana Moon Franchise, we understand how important this is. That’s why we support every franchisee in finding the right location using bespoke data dashboards, working with retained property search consultants to secure locations with outdoor space that fits your vision and your business plan.
Find out more about franchising with us today!
