What is Risky Play? Part 1
What is Risky Play?
Risky play is all about letting kids embrace a little adventure! It’s the kind of play where they climb a bit higher, jump a little farther, or explore something new and exciting, all while learning to navigate challenges safely. Think of it as building confidence, creativity, and resilience one daring leap (or wobbly balance) at a time. It might look a little nerve-wracking at first, but it’s how kids discover their limits, boost their problem-solving skills, and have a ton of fun along the way!
At our nursery in Dubai, we encourage children to take part in risky play in a safe and supportive environment. Inspired by approaches such as Forest School, Reggio Emilia, Playwork in the UK, and the Froebel approach, we provide opportunities for children to explore their abilities, build confidence, and gain independence.
The Importance of Risky Play in Early Childhood Development
Risky play is getting its well-deserved moment in the spotlight, and honestly, it’s about time! In a world where kids’ schedules are packed tighter than a carry-on suitcase, and playgrounds are often too safe, letting little ones explore their wild side has never been more crucial.
When kids climb higher, balance wobbly, or venture into new spaces, they’re doing more than just playing, they’re learning to tackle challenges head-on. They’re building confidence, sharpening their problem-solving skills, and figuring out how to make smart decisions. Basically, they’re leveling up in the game of life.
The Forest School approach emphasizes outdoor learning and risk-taking in nature, allowing children to engage with their environment and develop resilience. Similarly, the Reggio Emilia philosophy encourages children to explore their surroundings and learn through play-based experiences that foster independence and creativity.
At our preschool in Dubai, we integrate these child-led methods, ensuring that risky play is a key part of the learning experience. Whether it’s climbing trees, hopping across rocks, or just testing their own limits, children thrive when given the opportunity to challenge themselves in a secure environment.
Benefits of Risky Play for Young Children
Social Benefits
Encourages teamwork and negotiation: When children engage in risky play, they often play together in groups, learning to communicate, share, and negotiate with their peers. These experiences help children build lasting social skills that will serve them throughout their life.
Promotes collaboration: Risky play often involves activities where children work together to figure things out, whether it’s building a fort or solving a problem. This fosters strong friendships and teaches the value of teamwork, aligning with the Playworks UK model, which promotes cooperative and engaging play environments.
Physical Development
Improves coordination, balance, and strength: Climbing on playground structures, jumping over obstacles, and balancing on beams all help children develop better coordination, balance, and muscle strength. These activities are crucial for overall physical development.
Supports motor skills: Risky play challenges both large (gross motor) and small (fine motor) muscles, helping children become more confident in their movements and develop greater physical agility. The Froebel approach, which emphasizes movement and hands-on learning, strongly supports these physical development benefits.
Emotional and Psychological Growth
Builds confidence and resilience: By facing challenges, even small ones, during risky play, children learn that it’s okay to take risks and make mistakes. Each successful accomplishment, like climbing higher or jumping further, boosts their confidence and teaches resilience when things don’t go as planned.
Encourages emotional regulation: Risky play often involves moments of frustration or fear, which helps children develop the ability to manage their emotions and become more emotionally aware. The Reggio Emilia approach highlights the importance of self-expression and emotional development in young learners.
Cognitive Development
Teaches risk assessment: As children engage in activities that involve taking risks, they begin to assess potential dangers and make decisions accordingly. This helps them develop critical thinking skills and learn to make choices based on reasoning and consequences.
Promotes problem-solving skills: Whether navigating a difficult climb or figuring out how to work together with friends, children naturally solve problems during risky play. These experiences help develop their cognitive abilities, making them better at handling challenges in other areas of life.
Overall Well-being
Promotes physical and mental health: Risky play gives children the freedom to explore and move, which reduces stress and enhances overall well-being. The combination of physical activity and emotional growth boosts mental health.
Encourages creativity: Unstructured, adventurous play fosters imagination, helping children become more creative and resourceful as they come up with new ways to engage with their environment. The Forest School and Reggio Emilia methods place great emphasis on the role of creativity in child-led play.
At our nursery in Dubai, we believe that allowing children to engage in risky play is essential for their overall growth and happiness. Drawing inspiration from Forest School, Reggio Emilia, Playwork UK, and the Froebel approach, we create environments where children feel empowered to take risks, explore, and learn through play.
If you're looking for a preschool in Dubai that values play-based learning and child-led exploration, we invite you to visit us and see how we create an enriching and adventurous environment for young learners.