Outdoor Learning- Connecting with Nature

Outdoor and nature-based learning for preschoolers are transformative approaches that integrate the natural environment into early childhood education (MacQuarrie et al., 2015; Johnstone et al., 2022). These methods foster a connection with nature, enhancing sensory experiences and stimulating curiosity and exploration. Children develop essential physical, cognitive, and social skills by engaging with the outdoors. Observing plants and animals, playing in natural settings, and participating in gardening or nature walks encourage creativity, problem-solving, and teamwork. Furthermore, these experiences promote environmental stewardship from an early age, instilling a sense of responsibility and appreciation for the natural world. The unstructured play and hands-on learning inherent in outdoor education help in developing resilience, independence, and a lifelong love for learning (Lindfors et al., 2021).

References:

Johnstone, A., Martin, A., Cordovil, R., Fjørtoft, I., Iivonen, S., Jidovtseff, B., ... & McCrorie, P. (2022). Nature-based early childhood education and children’s social, emotional and cognitive development: A mixed-methods systematic review. International journal of environmental research and public health, 19(10), 5967.

Lindfors, E., Rönkkö, M. L., Kiviranta, L., Yliverronen, V., Tanhuanpää, S., & Grönman, S. (2021). Outdoor learning in early childhood education: A narrative review. Techne serien-Forskning i slöjdpedagogik och slöjdvetenskap, 28(2), 156-165.

MacQuarrie, S., Nugent, C., & Warden, C. (2015). Learning with nature and learning from others: Nature as setting and resource for early childhood education. Journal of Adventure Education & Outdoor Learning, 15(1), 1-23.