Early Childhood Education Research

Playing Outdoors

Growing Inside

What Is This Research About?

This page shares the findings of a university research study "Promoting Social-emotional Development in Early Childhood through Nature-based Learning Experiences" conducted using a rapid review of peer-reviewed studies from year 2015–2025.

Key Findings

Four main themes were discovered: nature connectedness, self and well-being, social relationships, and inquiry.

2. About the Study

Understand more about the researcher, the background of the topic, and the key question this study aimed to answer about children ages 0–5.

3. Research Process

See how existing research was searched, screened, and analyzed using tools like PRISMA, Covidence, and thematic analysis.

4. Resources

View the research studies that were used in this particular study and gain new insight through the resources provided about nature-based learning.

"Meaningful contact with nature during the early years of life sets up rich scopes for spontaneous learning — especially in the first three years, a period in life that determines all future learning, behavior, and health."

— Craig et al., 2024, p.1

Who Should Read This?

This research is important for all who are invested in the development and success of young children.

Early Childhood Educators

Gain insight on how outdoor environments and experiences support children's development and how to bring more nature into your existing program.

Explore the evidence that supports putting nature-based learning into early childhood curriculum daily as a purposeful, intentional part of the program.

Parents & Caregivers

Understand how experiences like playing at the park or in the garden supports children in ways that extend beyond just having fun.

Explore the evidence that shows how nature-based experiences meaningfully contribute to the whole child.

Why It Matters

The early years in a child's life are described as particularly crucial for learning, behaviour, and development. Early experiences play a significant role in shaping who children become (Craig et al., 2024).

Social Skills Start Early

The foundation of good emotional and social health and skills are built from a young age. Outdoor environments enhance this kind of growth (Johnstone et al., 2022).

Global Shift

Learning outdoors was common for most of human history. In the 19th century, most formal learning moved indoors, and many of the benefits of outdoor experiences have since declined (Mann et al., 2021).

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