Why Nature-based?
Nature-based learning is increasing in popularity throughout the United States because this type of education has many benefits for children - some of which include: increased creativity, greater impulse control, stronger immune system, reduced obesity, better psychological well-being, advanced cognitive skills, increased positive social skills, and more positive attitudes toward nature and the environment. The following graphics illustrate the academic and developmental benefits of nature-based learning.
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For some in-depth information about the importance of nature for children, explore the following articles:
https://www.greenmatters.com/family/2018/06/07/ZM6rnt/nature-preschools-classrooms
https://natureofamericans.org/findings/benefits-of-nature
https://natureofamericans.org/findings/topic-summary/children
For further reading, check out the following books:
Last Child in the Woods by Richard Louv
Forest Kindergartens: The Cedarsong Way by Erin Kenny
Balanced and Barefoot by Angela Handscom
