Thanks so much for the reply...
Yes, our little one LOVES the outside too, and it really does have a calming effect. Even just this evening, my husband took him out in the backpack and he made his lovely happy noises and beamed from ear to ear as he was being put into the pack. He was then so happy when he got home, he played for a whole 20 minutes on his own!! : )
Have to say I haven't really given him a lot of play time in parks on the swings etc., so will try that a little more....(he was a bit apprehensive about swings last time I took him, but should give him another go, as they change so quickly!). During the recent summer days, he has really loved it when I have taken him to the park, sat with him on a picnic rug under the shade of a tree, and given him his lunch or dinner, but I could be a bit more inventive with our outdoor play activities : ).
Thanks again!