Children today spend less time playing in nature than their parents did, but there are a range of mental health benefits related to experiencing nature. Fortunately, educators can play a role in encouraging children to have meaningful experiences in nature by practicing nature pedagogy. There are a variety of Be You resources that can support educators to do this.
What is nature pedagogy?
Claire Warden, an education consultant, states that nature pedagogy helps us to feel a sense of belonging to our land and feel connected. She says Nature Pedagogy includes: "The educational environments we create, the process of assessment and planning, and the learning journeys that we encourage children and families to take throughout childhood."
How do experiences in nature impact children’s mental health?
Research shows that nature positively influences children’s mental health. Experiences in nature reduce the symptoms of anxiety and depression. Being in nature creates a greater sense of calm by lowering blood pressure and the production of stress hormones.
How can Be You support nature pedagogy?
Many Be You early learning services and schools have been implementing nature pedagogy for a number of years, and some are just beginning the journey. Educators have shared these experiences at Be You Conversations with Be You Consultants and educators around Australia – connecting their emerging nature pedagogy with their Be You learnings, and their broader focus and promotion of positive mental health within their learning community.
Questions to consider
How can you use the Be You resources to guide nature pedagogy in your early learning service or school?
What mental health benefits have you seen within your learning community from time spent in nature?
We invite you to share your story at a Be You Conversation session.