What is Nature-Based Education?
According to North American Association for Environmental Education, nature-based early education programs can be simply described as:
Learning in nature
A significant portion - or ALL - of the instructional time is spent outdoors.
Learning about nature
Nature is the central organizing theme of the program.
Learning for nature
It has the dual goals of promoting child development and developing children’s environmental literacy.
Why Nature-Based Education?
Kids need to be outside.
According to the Children & Nature Network, the abundant and significant benefits of nature on children are clear and backed by scientific research.
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Children are healthier when they live, learn and play in and around nature.
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Living in greener environments and engaging with nature and companion animals can enhance children’s mental health and emotional well-being.
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Nature improves academic performance. Just being in and around nature enhances attention and self-regulation in children, and decreases stress. These factors help kids learn and retain information.
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Spending time in nature creates “nature champions.” Time spent in nature as a child, particularly in activities or places that evoke an emotional connection, can foster care and concern for the natural world.
