Article Link: http://exchangepress.com/article/bringing-the-wonder-of-nature-to-childrens-indoor-environments/5020503/
Over the next year, Wonder will be filled with ideas for using free tools available on the World Forum website in the Environmental Action Kit: Connectingthe World’s Children with Nature, which can be accessed at
www.worldforumfoundation.org/nature.
In this edition we’ll explore one of the “Universal Principles for Connecting Children with Nature” that were developed by leaders and members of the Nature Action Collaborative for Children:
Nature should be integral in the design process of children’s indoor and outdoor environments.
We’ll be especially focusing on the importance of bringing nature indoors. In the future we’ll look more closely at ideas for developing and enhancing nature-filled outdoor spaces.
Two parts of the Environmental Action Kit can help you use this principle more fully in your work. The first is in the Resources and Professional Articles section where you’ll find “Benefits of Nature to Children” by Louise Chawla. This fact sheet summarizes several studies that identify what children gain from deeper connections with nature, including increased concentration and school achievement, and a stronger foundation for life-long environmental stewardship. Feel free to share it with staff and families.
A second resource is in the Educator and Family Materials section of the Environmental Action Kit. Click on the ...