Outdoor and nature-based education provides opportunities for children to be active, develop motor, social, emotional, and self-regulatory skills, and participate in outdoor play. Children who engage in outdoor, nature-based learning perform better academically, have better concentration, and reduced behavioral challenges. Outdoor and nature-based education in early childhood helps children build a loving connection and interactions with the Earth while also supporting their health and well-being. On the flip side, research suggests that limited experiences in nature can have long-term developmental consequences for children. Integrating outdoor and nature-based education into early childhood programs helps all children have a healthy start.
- How can nature-based education be part of your programming?
- How do purposefully connect young children with the outdoors?
