Nature and children

The benefits of nature to the human body are sometimes intuitive. We enjoy spending time observing the leaves moving, feeling the wind on our skin, and reflecting on our lives while looking at sunset by the beach. People who have been suffering from depression, stress, or sickness, are opting to engage with nature to heal. But nature is not just wilderness. The benefits of nature can also be found in our communities’ parks and green spaces.

There are a plethora of studies with supportive evidence, proving that nature is good for us and has both long and short-term mental and physical health benefits.

And for children is no different. In a recent article, the Child Mind Institute describes the benefits of nature to the child’s mind. From supporting imagination and creativity to teaching responsibility as well as reducing stress and fatigue(childmind.org)

Even though this article states that it is still unclear how exactly cognitive functioning and mood improvement occurs, some schools are adopting this nature-based educational approach to support the development of young generations. From greening schoolyards to outdoor learning sessions, educators and administrators are becoming aware of nature's benefits to reducing students' stress and improving their focus and engagement resulting in better academic performance.

Now, for zero to 5 years old’s, the resources are more accessible! Just take them to the park, a short walk around the neighborhood or your own backyard can facilitate your child’s engagement with nature. As a parent or educator, you can utilize this time to support your child’s cognitive and language development.

Here are some ideas you can try today:

·Describe how the wind moves the leaves, ask the child to notice similarities and differences as he/she observes the foliage.

·Look for insects on the ground. Ask questions such as: what do you think they eat? I wonder if they have a family/where they sleep/if they are cold(hot).

·Take the time to observe in detail a flower/tree/bush/the sky. Encourage your child to describe the lines, colors, shades, and textures.

·Practice deep breathing and relax!

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