Inspire young writers with nature-rich, imagination-boosting outdoor learning activities designed specifically for the Early Years.
Our 8 Early Years Big Write Ideas Outdoors pack gives teachers everything they need to take writing outside and turn it into a multi-sensory, meaningful experience that supports the EYFS framework.
Perfect for Reception, Nursery and preschool settings, these activities use only natural items so children can explore, create and write through authentic outdoor play.
What’s Inside
This resource includes eight teacher-ready outdoor Big Write set-ups, each written with Early Years pedagogy in mind.
Every idea includes:
Outdoor learning setup
Clear instructions for taking children outside in small groups and using nature – leaves, sticks, mud, stones, water and weather – as the stimulus for writing.
Child-led exploration
Each activity encourages curiosity, communication, vocabulary building and imaginative play.
Writing prompts for Early Years
Simple, developmentally appropriate writing suggestions linked to the outdoor experience.
Seamless transition indoors
Each idea flows naturally from outdoor exploration to indoor mark-making or writing, supporting continuous provision.
Links to EYFS
Activities connect to key areas of learning, including:
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Communication and Language
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Literacy
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Understanding the World
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Expressive Arts and Design
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Physical Development
Why Teachers Find This Resource Effective
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Easy to use, with minimal preparation required.
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Highly engaging, as children are inspired by real, hands-on outdoor learning.
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Supports wellbeing through fresh air, movement and sensory play.
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Flexible enough to use as standalone lessons or as part of weekly Big Write or outdoor learning sessions.
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Eco-friendly, using natural, sustainable materials found in school grounds.
Ideal For
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Early Years teachers
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Reception classes
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Nursery groups
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Forest School leaders
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Outdoor learning coordinators
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Anyone wanting to bring more purposeful writing into the outdoor environment
Give Your Early Writers Something Real to Write About
With 8 Early Years Big Write Ideas Outdoors, children aren’t just writing – they are exploring, imagining, storytelling and connecting with the natural world.
This resource helps build confidence, spark creativity and make writing irresistible through the power of outdoor learning.
