Nature Playscapes as Contexts for Fostering Self-Determination

Abstract

The physical environment plays a significant role in the development of self-determination. More specifically, natural environments in early childhood education can instill both competence and a sense of overall well-being in children. Research on self-determination in adolescence and adulthood is well-studied; however, little attention is focused on the conditions or contexts that elicit this outcome in children. Flexible, sensory-rich environments empower children to exercise preference, problem-solving, self-regulation, and engagement. The purpose of this research is to demonstrate how child-directed play within intentionally designed nature playscapes fosters self-determination. Analysis of the affordances of a 1.6 acre nature playscape, created to accommodate young children, highlights the role of open-ended play structures and loose parts. Observational video captured a diverse sample of 65 preschool children engaged in child-directed play. Descriptive vignettes portray instances of problem-solving, self-regulation, and engagement and provide a discussion point for the relationship between the affordances of natural learning environments and the development of self-determination.