As one of the most nature-depleted countries globally, the UK faces a significant challenge in fostering a strong human-nature relationship. The importance of connecting with nature has never been more pressing, particularly for the younger generation. Schools are increasingly incorporating curriculum-based outdoor learning on their grounds to improve pupil outcomes in well-being, academic attainment, and pro-environmental behaviour. But how effective are these initiatives?
Why Bother?
The modern Western child spends considerably less time outdoors compared to previous generations, leading to poorer health outcomes, increased obesity, and rising mental health issues (McCurdy et al., 2010). A recent report from NHS England (2023) revealed that 20.3% of eight to sixteen-year-olds had a probable mental disorder, underscoring the urgency of addressing this issue.
Contact with nature has been shown to positively impact pupils’ mental health (RSPB, 2010). The UK government has set targets to connect pupils with nature to tackle biodiversity loss, obesity, and mental health problems (DEFRA, 2018). Additionally, nature-based learning can improve academic performance for children who do not thrive with traditional teaching methods (Kuo et al., 2019). However, access to green spaces is not equitable, making it essential to ensure all children have the opportunity to benefit from nature.
Why Connect to Nature?
Connecting with nature offers numerous benefits, including:
- Emotional Wellbeing: Nature makes us feel good, inspires us, and helps calm our minds.
- Physical Health: Outdoor activities promote exercise.
- Social Benefits: Nature encourages play, improves relationships, fosters resilience, and is inclusive.
- Environmental Awareness: Understanding and caring for the planet.
Nature can be found everywhere, from a windowsill to a park, and even indoors, making it a low-cost and accessible tool for significant impacts.
Nature Contact vs. Nature Connectedness
Nature contact refers to physically being in nature and engaging in sensory experiences, such as walking in a park or having an outdoor lesson. This reduces stress, improves mood, increases physical activity, and enhances cognitive function through attention restoration. However, these benefits tend to be short-term.
In contrast, nature connectedness is a deeper, psychological construct involving an emotional and psychological relationship with nature. It recognises the interdependence and interconnectedness of human-nature relationships, fostering a sustained sense of purpose and empathy. Research shows that nature connectedness rather than mere contact has a more lasting positive impact on well-being, promoting personal growth, lower anxiety, improved body image, and pro-social and pro-environmental behaviours (Pritchard et al., 2020).
Pathways to Nature Connectedness
Developing nature connectedness is a fundamental psychological need and can lead to better well-being than socio-economic improvements alone. The following strategies can help embed nature connectedness in educational settings:
- Senses/Contact with Nature: Deer Ears and Owl Eyes: Stand quietly in nature, focusing on the sights and sounds around you for a few minutes, then share your observations.
- Beauty: Mandala Creation: Use natural items to create mandalas, fostering an appreciation of nature’s beauty.
- Emotion: Nature Hunt: Explore the playground to find and feel different natural objects, discussing how they make pupils feel.
- Meaning: Bee Journey Story: Imagine the journey of a bee around the school, considering its safe places and dangers, and discussing the importance of bees.
- Compassion: Bird Feeder: Create a bird feeder from natural materials and observe the birds it attracts, promoting care for wildlife.
Teaching Strategies for Nature Connectedness
- Noticing and Tuning In: Pause and closely observe nature, sharing three good things you notice.
- Practical Activities: Engage in activities that align with the pathways to nature connectedness, such as sensory exercises, creative art, and storytelling.
Conclusion
Embedding nature connectedness within curriculum-based outdoor learning can significantly enhance pupil well-being, academic attainment, and pro-environmental behaviours. By adopting systematic, low-cost adjustments to educational practices and resources, schools can foster a deeper, sustained relationship between children and nature, leading to long-term benefits. Encouraging nature connectedness rather than just nature contact is crucial for achieving these positive outcomes.
