Exploring Light, Shadow and Darkness Through Play
Light and Dark KS1: Outdoor Learning Ideas is a practical, outdoor-first resource designed to help teachers explore the theme of light and dark through hands-on, child-led learning. Using the Muddy Puddle Teacher approach, this pack supports meaningful learning across the KS1 curriculum through real experiences with sunlight, shadow, shade, and darkness — without worksheets, tables, or pressure to produce perfect outcomes.
All activities are designed to take place outdoors and use simple, reusable resources such as hoops, bamboo, chalk and chalk pens, cones, ropes, fabric, and natural materials. Children learn by noticing changes, investigating shadows, moving through light and dark spaces, and talking about how environments feel and change.
What’s Included
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Outdoor learning activities organised by KS1 curriculum subject areas, including:
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English
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Maths
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Science
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Art & Design
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Computing (unplugged)
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Design & Technology
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Geography
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History
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Music
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PE
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RE
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PSHE / RSE
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At least three outdoor lesson ideas per subject
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Clear guidance to support child-led exploration and talk
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Activities suitable for Year 1 and Year 2, with flexibility for mixed abilities
Why This Pack Works
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Fully aligned with KS1 curriculum expectations, taught outdoors
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Uses natural light, shade, and shadow as learning tools
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Encourages curiosity, movement, observation, and discussion
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Inclusive and suitable for SEND-friendly practice
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Low-prep and low-cost, using resources schools already have
Learning Through Light and Dark
This resource supports children’s development in:
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Scientific enquiry and observation
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Vocabulary and descriptive language
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Early maths through measuring and comparing
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Creativity and expressive arts
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Physical development and spatial awareness
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Emotional wellbeing and confidence
Perfect For
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KS1 classrooms
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Science topics on light and dark
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Outdoor learning and forest school sessions
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Inclusive and SEND-friendly settings
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Teachers looking for meaningful, pressure-free learning outdoors
Light and Dark KS1: Outdoor Learning Ideas gives teachers permission to step back and gives children the space to explore, question, move, and wonder — turning everyday light and shadow into powerful, curriculum-linked learning.
