Why is nature important in early years education?

Nature plays an important role in early years education and through Key Stages One and Two – and, frankly, I’d argue all the way through our human journey. Outdoor learning is widely recognised as benefiting children’s physical, social and emotional wellbeing as well as their learning, which has helped forest school programmes spread across the UK.

At forest school, children are encouraged to take safe risks and explore the natural world. They learn about the seasons, plants, trees, birds and animals in a fun and exciting way, and develop practical skills like problem-solving and resilience that help them become independent learners.

Nature is a powerful teacher. It nurtures children’s curiosity, creativity and imagination, and offers an ever-changing environment to learn in. Engaging with nature supports children’s development emotionally, physically, cognitively and spiritually, so it’s essential we give young learners every opportunity to connect with the outdoors.

We can support outdoor learning indoors too: stories, painting and nature tables give children spaces to share what they’ve experienced outside.

Let’s give children the tools they need to become confident, curious and resilient learners who value nature and are inspired by it.