Some of the most striking benefits of learning in nature accrue to those children who find the classroom environment the most difficult. Children with ADHD and other neurodivergent ways of thinking often end up startling teachers with their insights and enthusiasm when they are in nature, compared to within the four walls of the classroom.
The vast majority of children that visit the Botanic Gardens with their schools are aged between 5 and 12 and this is great news, as according to a report by the UK’s Royal Society for the Protection of Birds, it is most important to engage kids with nature before they reach 12 years old.
The belief is that children who learn outdoors know more, understand more, feel better, behave better, work more cooperatively and are physically healthier.
“Before this age, contact with nature in all its forms but in particular wild nature appears to strongly influence a positive behaviour toward the environment. The sense of freedom of unstructured play that occurs in nature creates a source of independence and inner strength that can be drawn upon during stressful situations for the rest of their life.”
We hope that by offering activities and programmes for children and families, we facilitate a lifelong love of nature. That by reaching children and creating a safe, welcoming place for them, they will develop the confidence to roam and explore and respond spontaneously to nature.
To find out more about what we can offer families visiting the gardens visit: https://www.aucklandbotanicgardens.co.nz/visit-us/for-kids-and-families/.
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