SPENDING TIME OUTDOORS: THE EDUCATOR AND THE CHILD

Being outdoors allows children to explore, experience natural phenomena, it gives them more space and freedom for development. Educators should arouse children’s interest in nature so that children develop feelings and learn from experience. The research aimed at determining the attitudes and reflections of educators employed in preschool institutions in the Republic of Croatia regarding the attitudes and reflections of educators about being outdoors. The research was conducted on a sample of 351 educators. A measuring instrument designed for the needs of this research was used. The results of the research show that 53% of educators agree or completely agree with the statement that they spend their free time in nature. Furthermore, 35.6% spend up to 6 hours a week walking, recreation, cycling and the like. Regarding the statement which limiting factors prevent going outdoors with children, 58.1% of educators completely agree or agree with the statement. We asked the respondents which other limiting factor they see as an obstacle and 36.9% mentioned the weather. Educators are the ones who decide whether children will spend time outdoors. This affects children’s different experiences because their time outdoors depends on the beliefs and attitudes of their educators.