Meaningful Conflicts in Nature? Exploring Peer Conflict in a Nature Preschool During Outdoor and Indoor Play

This study explored peer conflict among preschoolers during indoor and outdoor free play in a nature-based preschool. We collected data through observations and video recordings of 15 preschoolers and analyzed and coded the data using an event sampling method. The findings revealed differences in primary conflict catalysts between indoor and outdoor settings. Play ideas was the main conflict catalyst in the outdoor setting, while distribution of resources was the primary conflict catalyst in the indoor setting. The implications of the study suggest that outdoor nature environments seem to provide children more meaningful conflict situations around play ideas rather than the mere possession of material.