Nature Walk is a significant experience every child should have. It helps teach a child how to centre. It keeps them grounded and provides a reflective and peaceful experience for children. Learning to calm the mind and the soul is an art.
CHILD DEVELOPMENT ARTICLES BY MARIA LOURDES A. DE VERA
Nature Walk for Kids
A walk in the park is exciting, refreshing and energizing. We feel a rejuvenating effect in our bodies. We breathe in more oxygen, clean air and the positive ambiance creates a much more affirmative and relaxed mood. Breathing out stress and unconsciously exhaling all our troubles away. For any child, nature walks are magical and enchanting. Just what do trees and forests give? With nature walks, exposure to fresh air boosts our immune system and helps build a stronger response against common viruses, colds and the flu.
Every walk is a wonderful opportunity for children to learn about the natural world. It is likewise, a great way to create beautiful and lasting memories with your children.
To share discovering new things by looking closely at the different shapes, sizes, colors, textures and structures of leaves and flowers. It strengthens emotional connection and improves communication skills in children. The wonder of tall trees, picking fruits, the smell of rain, and the feel of wet grass under the feet are magical moments for a child. Spending time under the tree, in the forests, in the mountains, or just outdoors in the garden can lead to significant health benefits for adults and children. Connecting with Nature improves mental health, and enhances sensory experiences – tactile, visual, auditory, and orientation to time and space.
Exposure to forests and trees is fun, physically healthy and provides adequate and appropriate sensory stimulation.
● Calm autistic children
● Increases energy level and improves mental processes
● Improves sleep, focus and brain function
● Boosts the immune system.
● Makes the child sensitive and perceptive of his environment
● Lowers blood pressure.
● Reduces mental stress and improves attention.
● Improves mood and increases alertness
● increases ability to focus, even in children with ADHD
What you find in nature walks are real footprints of a life that cannot be replicated through screen time. Early childhood needs authentic outdoor experiences. The fast-paced and second-hand visual experiences taking place on the screen can alter the real-time perception of the surroundings and environment. Walk at different times of the day or night to increase your chances of seeing something new and something that nurtures natural curiosity. Prolonged and consistent exposure to video games cannot provide the same natural learning necessary for growth and important for the psychosocial and emotional development of children. The significant impact of touch and connection to the world around him translates into the essence of empathy. It is imperative for the well-being and health of a growing child.
A short but regular visit to the park or nature walk provides the occasion to observe, engage and be part of the whole environment. It encourages children to observe with all their senses. It brings out their ability to orient in space and the ability to focus attention and the details around them.