It is estimated that children spend an average of four to seven minutes a day outdoors in unstructured play and up to 8 hours in front of a screen. This is in correlation with the increase in mental health issues and the increase in child obesity.
Exposure to natures is scientifically proven to alleviate stress. Also, according to research from Michigan University, a stroll through nature can increase your short term memory by 20%.
Outdoor Classrooms
To increase children’s outdoor exposure you could implement outdoor classrooms. Timber gazebos make great outdoor areas for children to work, so you could take small classes outdoors as a treat and cut out the need for screens.
Take Lessons Outside
If you can, take the class outdoors. If you are teaching a science class or a class that could be taught in a creative way outside then bring the students outside.
If children are misbehaving, it may be due to lack of focus and the need of some exercise. If you notice multiple students aren’t focusing, it might be best to take them out for a stroll and try to teach the topic in a more friendly setting.
Take Them Camping
Kids can learn a lot when they are allowed to spend time in nature. Camping, therefore, can be an incredibly rewarding experience for school-going children, providing them with the opportunity to learn new skills, build resilience, and develop a deeper appreciation for nature.
Camping also offers an excellent chance for kids who are surrounded by technology all the time to disconnect from it and instead connect with each other. The Flinders Ranges School Camp in Australia and similar camps around the world are fantastic examples of the benefits of taking students outdoors for learning. They provide growing minds a chance to explore, engage in team-building activities, and absorb the local environment and culture.
By participating in camping activities such as hiking, swimming, and outdoor cooking, kids can develop confidence, independence, and a sense of adventure that will stay with them for years to come.
After School Clubs
Many after school clubs for children are either sport clubs or indoor creative clubs. To help children relax and get more outdoor time that they otherwise may not, you could initiate some wildlife clubs or woodland clubs that incorporate time in nature with studying.