Education and nature are two of the main pillars of children’s development. Interaction with nature allows exploration, discovery and learning in a practical and experiential way, which stimulates curiosity and creativity, encourages deeper learning and improves the well-being of children, both physically and emotionally.

In addition, this type of space provides a greater sense of relaxation, helping to reduce stress and anxiety, essential factors to ensure a more balanced development. Thus, thanks to this, we are laying the foundations for children to become environmentally conscious and respectful adults.

Understanding the connection between education and nature

The relationship between education and nature is profound and multidimensional. Since ancient times, the natural environment has been a source of knowledge and a setting for learning. However, over the last decades, this connection has been weakened by the rise of new technologies and the time children spend indoors.

The role of nature in children’s development

Nature is not only a physical space, but also an important educational resource. In fact, studies have shown that natural environments stimulate children’s curiosity, creativity and critical thinking.

Observing plants, animals and natural phenomena makes them ask questions and promotes their investigative spirit. In addition, nature provides an ideal setting for hands-on, experiential learning, which is key in the early stages of children’s development.

How nature enhances the educational process

Interaction with nature has a very positive impact on academic performance. It has been shown that children who spend more time outdoors tend to have better problem-solving skills and a longer attention span.

In addition, nature also reduces anxiety and stress, creating an environment conducive to richer and more balanced learning.

  • Improved problem solving: nature presents unique challenges that require creativity and critical thinking.
  • Increased attention span: being in contact with nature makes children concentrate better on their schoolwork.
  • Reduced anxiety and stress: nature provides a calmer environment that helps children relax and feel more comfortable.
  • Encouraging active learning: outdoor activities allow children to learn in a more hands-on and participatory way.

Benefits of nature in early childhood education

Here are some of the benefits of bringing education and nature together:

  1. Improved physical and emotional well-being

Regular contact with nature significantly improves children’s physical well-being. Activities such as running, jumping and climbing strengthen muscles and improve motor coordination. In addition, exposure to the outdoors increases the absorption of vitamin D, which is essential for bone development.

But it is also beneficial on an emotional level , acting as a natural calming agent. Research has shown that children who have access to green spaces have lower levels of anxiety and stress, providing a peaceful haven in which children can relax and unwind from the daily grind, promoting a healthy and balanced state of mind.

  1. Stimulates creativity and imagination

Natural spaces offer numerous sensory stimuli and endless opportunities for free and creative play. Unlike structured toys, natural elements such as stones, leaves and branches have no defined purpose, allowing children to use their imagination to create their own games and narratives, playing a key role in cognitive and emotional development by encouraging creativity and abstract thinking skills.

  1. Promotes environmental awareness and responsibility

Contact with nature from an early age also instils in children a love and respect for the planet. By interacting with flora and fauna, children learn about ecosystems and the importance of conserving them. Fundamental to form responsible citizens committed to the environment.

Outdoor activities that promote learning

Including outdoor activities in the academic curriculum is an excellent way to take advantage of the benefits of nature, promoting learning and the integral development of children while having fun.

Exploring nature

Walks through parks, forests or beaches offer numerous opportunities to observe and learn about different plants, animals and geological formations. Teachers can prepare activity sheets with questions and challenges to encourage observation and investigation.

School gardening

Being part of the process of planting, caring for and harvesting plants helps them better understand life cycles and the importance of sustainable agriculture. In addition, working in a school garden can strengthen the sense of community and cooperation among students.

Outdoor science projects

Organising outdoor science projects is a great way to apply theoretical concepts in a real-world setting. Experiments on the water cycle, photosynthesis or biodiversity can be carried out in a natural environment, making learning more interactive and helping to consolidate knowledge.

Educational games in nature

Educational outdoor games combine fun with learning. Treasure hunts, orienteering races and eco-challenges are ideal for teaching maths, geography and problem-solving skills, promoting active and collaborative learning.

As you can see, the importance of nature in early childhood education is undeniable, and the benefits it brings go beyond academics, positively influencing children’s physical and emotional well-being.

This not only enriches the learning process, but also fosters a healthy and respectful relationship with the natural environment, preparing children to be curious and responsible individuals, capable of facing the challenges of the future with a solid foundation of knowledge and values.