Embracing Risk: The Power of Wild Play in Childhood Development

Nestled among the rocks and trees, my children, Noah (13) and his little brother Rhion (3), sit perched on a natural ledge, barefoot and immersed in their surroundings. The sunlight filters through the dense canopy above, casting playful shadows on the rugged terrain below. This moment—of climbing, exploring, and experiencing the raw beauty of nature—reflects the very essence of learning through risk.

The idea of “risky play” is gaining momentum worldwide, as educators, parents, and policymakers recognize the importance of allowing children to engage in unstructured, adventurous play. The Woeste Westen play forest in Amsterdam exemplifies this movement, providing children the space to explore boundaries through climbing, wrestling, playing with fire, and even using tools like hammers and knives under supervision.

In an era where digital screens dominate childhood, outdoor play is becoming an endangered experience. Mascha van Werven, a charity director, highlights a growing concern: “More and more kids are losing the ability to deal with risks and be happy when the situation gets a bit more stressful.” Learning how to navigate physical challenges—such as climbing rocks, balancing on fallen trees, or using sticks as imaginary swords—fosters resilience, problem-solving, and confidence.

Watching Noah and Rhion explore this rocky terrain, I see firsthand how this kind of play shapes their confidence and independence. Noah, on the edge of adolescence, instinctively looks out for his little brother, helping him navigate the uneven ground while still allowing him the freedom to test his own limits. Rhion, full of curiosity, fearlessly follows, learning not just from the environment but from his older brother’s example.

Amsterdam’s push to replace traditional, risk-averse playgrounds with spaces that encourage “rufty-tufty playing” signals a cultural shift. As Rob Hofland, leader of the local D66 party, points out, the sedentary lifestyle of many children today contributes to long-term physical and mental health problems. By encouraging active, exploratory play, children not only build stronger bodies but also develop the emotional resilience to handle life’s uncertainties.

The benefits of risky play extend beyond just childhood. Studies show that early exposure to risk helps children become more adaptable adults. They learn to assess dangers, make informed decisions, and develop a deeper connection to their environment.

Noah and Rhion may not be aware of the broader debate surrounding their play, but they are embodying its core message: learning doesn’t just happen in classrooms. Sometimes, it happens barefoot on a rock, high among the trees, where the thrill of discovery meets the wisdom of experience.