The Benefits of Learning in Nature

Start by exploring the emerging trend of nature-based learning.

As society becomes more and more dependent on technology to meet everyday needs, many parents and educators are endorsing the idea of letting young children spend extended amounts of time in nature. Nature-based learning institutions have popped up all over the world, united in their belief that natural settings offer superior learning opportunities to those of traditional classrooms and curricula.

Forest School, one of the leading nature-based schools, uses a child-centred learning process that promotes holistic growth through play, hands-on exploration, and supported risk-taking in natural settings such as woodlands. It is a long-term learning process relying on regular sessions rather than infrequent visits.

The many benefits of this nature-based learning approach include:

• building students’ confidence, competence, resilience, creativity, and independence;
• helping students develop physically, intellectually, emotionally, socially, and spiritually; and
• fostering a deep and meaningful connection to the world and their place in it. (Forest School Association, n.d.)

Join the Discussion

What impact do you think this type of learning might have on the children in your area and their communities?

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