The Power of Risky Play: Why a Little Risk is a Big Deal for Kids

At Tiny Green Learning, we believe that nature is the ultimate playground—and that means embracing all the climbing, jumping, balancing, and exploring that comes with it. But what about risk? Should we let young children engage in activities that might seem a little daring?

The answer, backed by science, is a resounding yes! Risky play—those thrilling, slightly challenging activities like climbing high, balancing on logs, or rolling down hills—plays a huge role in child development. It’s not about putting kids in danger; it’s about helping them learn, grow, and become confident in their own abilities.

What Is Risky Play?

Risky play includes activities that challenge kids physically and mentally, like:

• Climbing trees, rocks, or playground structures

• Balancing on logs or stepping stones

• Exploring unfamiliar areas like the woods or a new park

• Engaging in rough-and-tumble play like wrestling or running fast

While it might make some adults nervous, research shows that risky play is not reckless—it’s essential.

The Science Behind Risky Play

The Outside Play Lab at the University of British Columbia, led by researcher Dr. Mariana Brussoni, has been studying risky play for years. Their research shows that when children engage in challenging play outdoors, they develop:

1. Stronger Bodies

Climbing, jumping, and balancing build strength, coordination, and motor skills. Kids who engage in more physical play tend to have better agility and overall health.

2. Resilient Minds

Facing challenges—like deciding whether to jump from a rock or figuring out how to climb down a tree—teaches kids to assess risk, build confidence, and manage fear. These skills make them more resilient and capable of handling new experiences.

3. Better Social Skills

When kids play together in a slightly risky way, like balancing on logs or playing tag, they learn cooperation, negotiation, and conflict resolution. They also develop empathy and communication skills—things that will benefit them for life.

4. Problem-Solving Skills

Risky play teaches children how to assess their environment, make decisions, and problem-solve. For example, “Is this rock too slippery to jump from?” or “How can I get across this log without falling?” These critical thinking skills help in school, friendships, and everyday life.

How to Encourage Safe Risky Play

We know it’s tough to watch your child climb higher than you’re comfortable with, but here are some ways to embrace safe risky play:

• Trust their instincts. Kids are often better at judging their own limits than we think!

• Provide diverse outdoor spaces. Natural playgrounds with trees, rocks, and logs encourage safe risk-taking.

• Supervise without hovering. Instead of saying, “Be careful!” try, “Do you feel steady? Where will you put your foot next?”

• Model confidence in the outdoors. Show your child that nature is a place to explore, not fear.

  
  

Let’s Get Kids Moving!

At Tiny Green Learning, we embrace play that challenges, excites, and empowers kids. Nature is full of opportunities for safe, healthy risk-taking, and we’re here to support families in navigating that balance.

So next time your little one starts climbing a log or jumping off a rock, take a deep breath and remember—they’re not just playing, they’re growing.

I'mWant to learn more? Check out Outside Play for insights from Dr. Brussoni’s research, and join us for one of our Nature Play Dates to see risky play in action!