Outdoor reading, whether that’s beneath the shade of a canopy or in a natural environment, offers a unique and enriching experience for students of all ages.
In this guide, we will take you through some of our favourite outdoor reading area ideas by showcasing five of our stunning outdoor canopies, as well as exploring the benefits of outdoor reading dens.
If you are interested in a school canopy, look no further than A&S Landscape. Our outdoor covered areas are designed and created around how pupils play and learn and have made a huge difference to the schools we have worked with so far.
With this in mind, let’s explore some of the best outdoor reading area ideas we have on offer.
5 Outdoor Reading Area Ideas Perfect for Schools
To give you some outdoor reading area ideas, we have come up with a list of five of our best outdoor canopies, suitable for primary and senior schools.
Sleek Shade Sails
A shade sail is the perfect canopy for an outdoor reading area as they add character, dimension, and colour. Their pointy edges and striking colour options means that your outdoor area can be transformed to a stunning library in an instant.
These are especially great for reading on a hot summer’s day, as they are excellent at reducing exposure to harmful UV rays due to the shade cloth and PVC fabrics used.
Likewise, our Maxima StarSail™ can be made from PVC fabric, which is high-strengthening and waterproof, great for reading all year round.
Cheerful Colourful Canopy
We are pleased to bring you the widest range of canopy colours available in the industry. Our palette includes colours specific to different ranges and different types of fabric, ranging from bright yellows to sophisticated greys.
Creating a reading area that looks fun and appealing is key to encourage children to get outside. Therefore, for a colourful canopy that wows, consider one of our Motiva Linear™ canopies.
Available in a dazzling rainbow colour way, this makes for an exciting outdoor reading experience, especially if you add bright coloured stools and bookshelves.
Retractable Roofs
Rectractable canopies are an external attachment to your school that provide protection from harsh weather conditions or harmful UV rays. More importantly, they act as a secluded space perfect for outdoor learning or reading.
One of the biggest advantages of a retractable shade system lies in its adaptability- you have complete control over the amount of weather exposure you desire at any given time.
There is also the option to incorporate heating and lighting fixtures, making it usable even in the colder months. Customise these areas by adding cosy features such as cushions and beanbags for the ultimate reading experience.
Clever Cantilever
If you’re after an outdoor reading area without any obstructions, then a cantilever canopy is ideal. These structures are popular in primary and secondary schools due to the large amount of covered space created underneath the shelter.
With a choice of curved and straight roof designs, you can customise your canopy to fit your standards perfectly. Our Motiva Cantilever™ is a perfect example of a practical and sturdy structure suitable for an outdoor reading nook.
Add brightly coloured chairs and benches for super story sessions.
Beautifully Bespoke
If some of these canopies aren’t quite what you’re looking for, don’t worry. At A&S Landscape we offer completely bespoke canopy designs, suitable for all of your specific needs.
We can make variations to our standard products or even create a complete custom-made structure. Polycarbonate, fabric and waterproof materials can be tailored to your needs, often with a wide choice of colours to choose from.
You should definitely consider a bespoke canopy for your outdoor reading area, especially if you’re after something customisable and unique!
What Reading Area Would Our Experts Recommend?
So far we have showcased five of our favourite outdoor reading area ideas, but you might be after a real-life comment from one of our experts. Let’s take a look at what one of our canopy consultants has to say about outdoor reading area ideas.
“To inspire and create an engaging environment, consider our colourful polycarbonate roof sheets. These create a beautiful colourful statement on your playground and when the sun shines through the roof they will leave a captivating pattern below.”
-Stefanie Lomas, Canopy Consultant
The Benefits of Outdoor Reading
There’s no doubt that spending time outside is extremely beneficial and necessary for children, and reading outside also comes into play. With this in mind, let’s have a look at some of the key benefits of outdoor reading.
For further outdoor learning activity ideas, check out these 12 outdoor learning activities for EYFS.
In Tune with Nature
Nature has the ability to calm the mind and reduce stress and anxiety. When children read in a peaceful outdoor setting, they can experience a sense of tranquillity and escape from the pressures of everyday life.
Therefore, an outdoor reading area is extremely important for children to engage with outdoor elements and ground themselves with the world around them. Surrounding children with nature means that they can disconnect from technology and immerse themselves in the present moment.
Relaxed Environment
Being outdoors creates a calming and relaxing environment, perfect for concentration whilst reading. When children read in natural environments, they are exposed to a variety of sights, sounds and smells that contribute to sensory stimulation.
A change of scenery provided by outdoor reading can also act as a catalyst for creativity and imagination. Feeling relaxed and comfortable is essential in allowing them to flourish and reach their full potential.
Increased Confidence
By embracing the outdoor world around them, and with fewer restrictions on what they can or can’t do, being outdoors gives children the chance to take control over their own actions.
Because they can explore freely, this will empower them with a sense of confidence and will teach them how to play safely and comfortably. Instead of being restricted by the doors of a classroom, outdoor reading encourages interaction and social skills.
Looking For an Outdoor Reading Area? Get in Touch With the Experts
Hopefully, this guide has given you some inspirational outdoor reading area ideas that you can use. Not only are outdoor reading areas extremely beneficial for the development of young children, but they also provide a safe and comfortable space for them to absorb themselves in a story.
Don’t forget that at A&S Landscape, we have an incredible range of nursery and outdoor canopies, suitable to act as outdoor reading areas or for other uses such as playground shelters or dining areas.
If you have any enquiries or want to find out more about our canopies, please don’t hesitate to get in touch. A member of our expert team will be more than happy to get back to you!
