The aim of this thesis was to examine the thoughts and experiences of children in a metsämörri group regarding recreation in nature. The priority was to make the voice of children heard through this thesis. The aim was to obtain first-hand information from children to determine their thoughts, ideas and hopes on recreation in nature.

The theoretical perspective consists of social pedagogy, early childhood education and care (ECEC) pedagogy as well as outdoor and environmental education. The theory of social pedagogy concentrated on participation and specifically on children’s participation. Regarding ECEC pedagogy, the focus was on the age and development stage of the target group in the thesis. In terms of outdoor and environmental education, the thesis looked at the implementation of outdoor education in children’s daycare, especially by means of metsämörri activity.

The thesis was conducted as a qualitative study. Interviewing and observing children were used as research methods. The interviews were executed as thematic interviews and in the observation the observer was an involved participant in the activities. Ten children from the metsämörri group took part in this study.

The obtained data were examined using content analysis. Seven themes were discovered with the help of content analysis; playing and recreation, toys and nature elements, observation, rules, social relationships, food and wishes formed the themes for the research results.

The interviews and observation of children’s play produced comprehensive information. Children liked recreation and moving outdoors, and nature provided them with versatile activities. Nature had many positive benefits, especially to children’s growth, development and learning.