Looking at some statistics the National Trust produced recently, the average child spends 6 hours in front of a screen and only 4 minutes outside. When we look at the health issues we are facing in the next generation, we see obesity, mental health problems and increased cases of ADHD and the like, often attributed to the intense use of digital media.

I am no medical professional but it is not rocket science to make the connection that perhaps encouraging physical activities outdoors may help to address the issues we are facing. Much evidence of this is being gathered by experts and Essex University are leading in the knowledge that there is a direct correlation between mental health and the outdoors. Recommendation from Ofsted will in time suggest a minimum of 3 hours exercise a day for a child to help combat many issues facing young children’s health and wellbeing

There is no doubt that technology, particularly when it’s smart, dynamic and ‘cool’, is engaging children and I am fully supportive of the way technology can change education for the better. Most importantly, how it is reaching the children who in the current system are failing.

It has its merits and its place… but it is also OK and the right thing to do to encourage the phrase… ‘move away from the device!’

Our setting is pioneering in its approach, ideas and visions for the future: nurturing individuals and allowing technology to have its place at the table but not dominate a child’s development.

In this section we aim to give you the ever expanding research on the benefits of your child learning in the outdoors, and hope to bring you the tools to help manage the development of your child and how to embrace the great out doors!

Many thanks,

Tracey Poulton
Owner of Natural Nurture

Natural England – Children more motivated to learn when outside 

RSPB – Connecting with Nature

The Queens Wood Forest School Report

National Trust – Natural Childhood 

Plymouth University – Outdoor Learning “Boosts Children’s Development”

The Benefits of Outdoor Learning in the Early Years

BBC – Outdoor Learning “Boosts Children’s Development” article

Benefits of Early Years of Learning Outside the classroom

Risk Challenge & Adventure

Children and Nature