"Children are born with a sense of wonder and an affinity for Nature. Properly cultivated, these values can mature into ecological literacy, and eventually into sustainable patterns of living."
-Zenobia Barlow
Children and the outdoors.
Children are spending an increasing amount of time indoors. Those children living in urban areas have even less of a chance to experience nature. These children lack easy access to parks and other nature sites. This can lead to a disconnect between what the child thinks nature is like and the reality of the outdoors.
What benefits does a child receive from outdoor education?
Outdoor education is about much more than just being outside. It is a chance for children to experience and grow. Exercise is a key benefit from exploring the outdoors. With an increasing number of children being overweight or obese it is a great way for them to experience physical activity in a natural environment. They benefit from team work and problem solving skills. Plus it is a great way to teach children about conservation and the leave no trace philosophy. It also allows for a hands on teaching method whether it be biology, math, or astronomy. It also gives kids a way to disconnect. No cell phones, no computers, no television.
Why does it matter?
For most of human history we have lived in conjunction with nature. As our lives become more hectic and busy we no longer have time to go outside. The skills learned as a child in nature will stick with a person for a lifetime. This can promote a lifelong interest in an active lifestyle as well as the outdoors. This serves as a way to experience nature and our place in it.
