Taproot: A Journal of Outdoor Education
Print Reference
pp. 12-19
Abstract
Almost 150 years ago, nineteenth century psychologist Herbert Spencer published his book, Principals of Psychology, in which he espoused the "surplus energy theory," explaining that the main reason for children's play is to get rid of surplus energy. Although researchers and developmental theorists have rejected his theory, it has had an unfortunate and lasting influence on the design of children's outdoor play environments (Malone, 2003). As a result of Spencer's theory, playgrounds are seen as areas for physical play during recess, where children 'burn off steam,' and not for the other domains of development or for learning. In child care settings, playgrounds typically have manufactured climbing equipment, and other than sometimes-manicured grass, are void of nature and vegetation. The playgrounds for multitudes of children are not green, but gray (Moore & Wong, 1997), many analogous to a parking lot (Worth, 2003).
Recommended Citation
Randy White
(2006)
"Young Children's Relationship with Nature,"
Taproot: A Journal of Outdoor Education: Vol. 16:
Iss.
2, Article 5.
Available at:
https://digitalcommons.cortland.edu/taproot/vol16/iss2/5