Does Nature Therapy Aid in Child Development?
Embracing Nature as a Therapeutic Classroom for Hands-On Learning Experiences
Environmental psychology theory suggests that contact with nature is essential for a child’s social relationships, creativity, imagination, intellectual and cognitive development.
Many studies submit that simply spending time in nature helps a child’s well-being and healthy development.
Being in Nature Benefits Children’s Development
Research: Heerwagen and Orians (2002); Kellert (2002, 2005); U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
The Benefits of Being Outdoors / Nature Therapy for Children
- Nature promotes a healthy immune system
- Creates a calm and alert state
- Strengthens connection between body and self
Social Development
- Confidence and social skills
- A sense of agency and control
- Teamwork skills
Cognitive Development
- Critical thinking skills
- Problem solving skills
- Academic performance
- Creativity
- Independence
Emotional Development
- Improve mood and self-esteem
- Reduce anxiety
- Regulate emotions
Physical Development
- Motor skills
- Physical health
- A positive relationship with nature
- A positive attitude towards learning
Strong interactions with nature at critical developmental stages are linked to enhanced independence, critical thinking, self-confidence, creativity and cognitive skills.
Free outdoor play, in particular, fosters teamwork and problem-solving abilities.
Children who engage with nature may be more likely to pursue careers in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) or STEAM (+Art) fields.
Exposure to nature may also reduce the need for anxiety-related therapy, leading to overall cost savings in mental health care (read more HERE).
Author Richard Louv introduced the concept of “nature deficit disorder” and emphasized the importance of outdoor experiences for children’s well-being in his book Last Child in the Woods.
“Time in nature is not leisure time; it’s an essential investment in our children’s health (and also, by the way, in our own).”
– Richard Louv
Embracing Nature at Cherokee Creek Boys School (CCBS)
At CCBS, we support the growing body of research that links the mental health benefits of being outdoors and spending time spent in nature to mental, physical and spiritual health. Our students, their families and our staff have opportunities daily for interaction with nature as well as longer immersions and adventures.
We strive to “unplug” boys from technology and reconnect them with nature!
Nature therapy enhances creativity, teamwork and problem-solving skills … and it’s fun! Our alumni students often share how they seek out nature in their adult lives as a way to reduce stress and help bring balance to their lives, a lesson they learned from CCBS.
Our CCBS Campus and Curriculum
- Hiking, canoeing, swimming and kayaking
- Camping and rock climbing
- Environmental studies
- Weekend TREK adventures through our CCBS Family Center
- Service and learning projects with the National Forest
- and so much more!
This peaceful, meditative environment is a great setting for all students, especially those diagnosed with ADD/ADHD and anxiety. When students need a quiet space, they have the option to work outdoors.
And, whenever possible, the outdoors itself becomes our classroom, offering hands-on learning experiences in creeks, forests and garden areas. Nature can add so much to life for children and for all of us.
May this be a good reminder to each of us to spend more time in nature!
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