Outdoor Learning I Spy
🔍 Spot, search, and learn with nature!
Turn any outdoor space into a playful learning adventure with our Outdoor Learning I Spy activity sheet! Specially designed for curious little minds, this resource helps children explore the natural world through observation, imagination, and movement.
Whether you’re in the forest, school playground, park, or back garden, this I Spy game is a fantastic way to boost early literacy, vocabulary, and attention to detail — all while enjoying the fresh air.
🌿 Perfect For:
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EYFS and KS1 outdoor learning
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Forest school and nature-based education
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Home educators and childminders
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Mindfulness walks and sensory play
✅ What’s Included:
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A beautifully designed, printable I Spy sheet with a mix of nature-themed items
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Easy-to-recognise illustrations and/or words (depending on age group)
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Can be laminated for reusable fun in all weather
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Encourages children to spot real-world items like bugs, birds, plants, and more
Pair it with a magnifying glass, binoculars, or a nature journal to extend learning even further!
Why It’s Great for Outdoor Learning:
This activity supports early language development, focus, and curiosity. It also ties in with EYFS learning goals around the natural world and expressive language — making it a go-to resource for any outdoor classroom.
🔍 The Importance of Doing Outdoor Learning I Spy with Kids
Learning through looking, noticing, and playing outside
Outdoor Learning doesn’t always require muddy boots and complicated lesson plans. Sometimes, all it takes is a little game of I Spy. This simple activity has been around for generations, but when taken outdoors, it transforms into a powerful tool for early years education.
From language development to mindfulness, here’s why incorporating Outdoor I Spy into your routine can have a big impact on young learners.
🌿 What Is Outdoor Learning I Spy?
Outdoor I Spy is a child-led observation game where children are encouraged to look closely at their environment and identify objects, colours, or shapes. It might sound simple, but it’s packed with learning opportunities — especially when done regularly in natural settings.
Whether you use our printable Outdoor Learning I Spy Sheet or play verbally on a woodland walk, this activity encourages exploration, focus, and fun.
💡 Why Is Outdoor I Spy So Powerful?
1. Boosts Language and Vocabulary
When children describe what they see — “something green,” “something round,” or “something that flies” — they’re expanding their vocabulary and practicing expressive language. For toddlers and EYFS learners, this builds a strong foundation for future literacy.
BBC Tiny Happy People explains how chatting during play boosts early language skills and communication.
2. Encourages Observation and Attention to Detail
Outdoor I Spy teaches children to slow down and really look. Whether they’re spotting a feather on the ground or a cloud in the sky, they’re developing critical thinking and focus — skills that transfer into classroom learning.
3. Supports Sensory and Nature Connection
Children engage all their senses as they observe, listen, and move through nature. This helps them feel grounded, calm, and connected to the natural world — a huge benefit in today’s fast-paced, screen-filled lives.
According to the Natural Start Alliance, nature-based learning boosts sensory development, mental health, and emotional resilience.
4. Promotes Physical Activity
I Spy gets kids moving! Whether they’re walking, pointing, reaching, or running toward a spotted item, they’re staying active — a key part of healthy child development.
The NHS recommends regular physical play for under-5s to support coordination, strength, and health.
🧠 Learning Outcomes from Outdoor I Spy
When used intentionally, Outdoor I Spy can support:
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Communication and language development
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Understanding of the world (through observation of animals, plants, and weather)
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Mathematics (using shape, size, and comparison language)
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Personal, Social & Emotional Development (taking turns, confidence building)
These all link beautifully with the EYFS curriculum and outdoor education goals.
🧺 Tips for Playing Outdoor I Spy with Kids
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Start with broad prompts: “I spy something green…” or “I spy something that moves.”
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Encourage description: Ask why or what else they notice.
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Use a Printable I Spy Sheet for independent or small group play.
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Make it seasonal! Try an Autumn I Spy or Winter Walk version.
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Encourage movement by challenging them to find items around a trail or in a garden.
🎒 Ready to Spy and Learn?
Our Outdoor Learning I Spy resource is perfect for teachers, parents, forest schools, and nursery settings. It’s reusable, simple to set up, and full of discovery. Plus, it pairs beautifully with our Scavenger Hunt Journal Page so kids can record what they’ve seen!
