Nature education is important.
A student shows off a nature find (photo by Carolyn Byers/SoWBA).
Today’s kids spend as little as thirty minutes outside each day, and almost seven hours in front of computer, smartphone, or television screens. Yet research shows that being outside is essential to kids’ healthy development.
A key component of our mission at Southern Wisconsin Bird Alliance is to get more kids outside, where they can have FUN engaging with and learning about our natural world. Whether it is in their own neighborhood, at a nearby park, or at one of our two wildlife sanctuaries, we take kids outside where they can explore, investigate, and discover new things about themselves and the world they inhabit.
Nature is for everyone! We believe this so strongly that we have spent thousands of hours developing curricula, programs, lessons, and resources for anyone interested in learning more about birds, nature, and the wonders of southern Wisconsin.
Kids see the world in a new way using science tools! (Photo by Carolyn Byers/SoWBA).
“Outdoor learning provides opportunities for our kids to shine in ways that don’t always initially show up in class. Through games, art, and discussion kids see their peers with new eyes and find qualities of leadership, problem solving strengths, kindness, and expertise that often go unnoticed in traditional in class work. ”
Hands-on learning is a powerful tool (photo by Carolyn Byers/SoWBA).
Why Nature-based Education?
It WORKS: Studies document increased school performance, better student attitudes, and improved behavior among students who participate in outdoor education. Nature-based education is relevant, hands-on, and experiential.
It’s HEALTHY: Students increase their physical activity level, and being outside enhances mental and social health. Studies show that access to nature can reduce symptoms of ADHD.
It’s FUN: Learning about nature is a change of pace from typical classroom learning. Research indicated increased student enthusiasm for learning outdoors–and we see it all the time during our school and community center programs!
It CONNECTS: Kids who feel connected to the natural world feel more connected to their peers, families, and communities. Through connection to place, students develop stronger civic engagement skills. Outdoor and nature-based education is helping to build the next generation of environmental stewards.
* Read more about the benefits of nature to childhood health & wellbeing and to childhood academic outcomes. For more information about why nature is important for everyone, visit the Children and Nature Network Research Digest.
Banner photo: A budding naturalist looks for activity on Goose Pond (photo by Carolyn Byers/SoWBA).
