How do I include outdoor play and nature learning in our day? 

Parenting Perspective 

Making Nature Study Meaningful 

Both younger and older children flourish when they are given regular opportunities to learn through nature. Fresh air, gentle exercise, and simple outdoor activities help them stay curious and return to indoor lessons with clearer minds and calmer energy. You do not need expensive resources to make nature study meaningful, even a short trip to the local park can become a lesson in counting, naming plants, or marvelling at the signs of Allah Almighty’s creation. 

Practical Ideas for All Ages 

For younger children, a simple walk can be transformed into an adventure with a treasure hunt, bug spotting, or collecting leaves for a collage. Encourage older children to draw, keep a journal, or take photographs of what they observe, then discuss or research it together later. Try to make outdoor time part of your daily routine, even just 30 minutes each day can make a big difference. Keep a small bag ready with magnifying glasses, notebooks, and a healthy snack to make getting out easy. If you have a garden, involve your child in growing herbs or vegetables; tending to be living things teaches patience and appreciation for Allah Almighty’s blessings. 

Outdoor Time as Essential Learning 

Above all, do not see outdoor time as ‘lost time’ from formal lessons, it is an essential part of your child’s learning and wellbeing. Nature study keeps them grounded physically and mentally and reminds them that knowledge is everywhere, not just inside books or four walls, InshaAllah. 

Spiritual Insight 

Spending time in nature can strengthen your child’s sense of connection to Allah Almighty’s signs. The noble Quran invites us again and again to reflect on the creation around us. 

Allah Almighty states in the noble Quran at Surah Al Imran (3), Verse 190: 

‘Indeed, in the creation of the heavens and the earth and the alternation of the night and the day are signs for those of understanding. ‘

This Ayah shows that being outdoors is not just recreation but an opportunity to build Iman. Take moments on your walks to pause and talk with your child about how perfectly balanced Allah Almighty has made this world, the shape of a leaf, the buzzing of a bee, the changing seasons. 

It is recorded in Sahih Muslim, Hadith 1623j, that holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ encouraged reflection and gratitude when witnessing the signs of creation. Bring small Duas into your outings, praising Allah Almighty for His blessings. When your child runs barefoot on grass, climbs a tree, or cares for a tiny plant, they are not just playing, they are learning trust in His design. Make outdoor time a daily moment of Sabr, Shukr, and wonder for your family, reminding your child that learning about the world is also learning about their Creator.