Nature is Good For Children

“Nature is good for children.”

That’s the first line from an article on the webpage  childrenandnature.org .  It’s such a simple statement, but it says so much.

Nature IS good for children. (For all of us, really.) It’s actually more than just “good”. It’s essential. Studies show that people who interact with nature on a regular basis have a better quality of life. Being exposed to nature can reduce stress, depression, anxiety and feelings of anger. Patients who have experienced injuries or surgery heal faster when they are placed in a natural environment (which is why many hospitals have gardens and outdoor courtyards). Children who are regularly exposed to nature have increased cognitive functioning and better social interactions.

The connection to nature is important for so many reasons. Unfortunately, many children don’t have the opportunity to play outdoors on a regular basis so they don’t get the opportunity to make this connection. But we can invite nature indoors, so that it can nurture children wherever they are. 

Click here for 20 nature activities to do with children... both indoors and outside.