Our World Is Dominated By Screens.

Hey Future Way Makers!

Today, we’re exploring something simple yet incredibly powerful: nature. In a world where screens dominate and structured schedules keep us indoors, nature provides a much-needed escape and a wealth of benefits for your child’s nervous system and learning abilities.

The Power of Nature on the Nervous System Being out in nature has a calming effect on the nervous system. The sights, sounds, and smells of the natural world help children relax, which is especially important given the constant stimulation they get from technology. Studies have shown that spending time outdoors can lower cortisol levels, reduce anxiety, and improve mood—all crucial factors for a healthy nervous system.

Imagine your child taking a deep breath of fresh air, feeling the grass beneath their feet, or listening to the sound of birds singing. These natural experiences help regulate the nervous system, allowing your child to move from a state of “fight or flight” into a state of calm and focus. When children feel calm, their ability to concentrate and learn improves significantly.

Boosting Learning Through Nature Spending time outdoors doesn’t just calm the nervous system—it also boosts learning. When children are outside, they engage their senses in ways that promote curiosity, exploration, and hands-on learning. Nature provides countless opportunities for kids to ask questions, solve problems, and think creatively.

Here’s How Nature Helps Your Child Learn

1. Stimulates Curiosity: Nature is full of wonders that inspire curiosity. Whether it’s observing insects, watching the clouds, or exploring a forest, being in nature naturally encourages kids to ask questions and seek answers.

2. Promotes Movement: Running, climbing, balancing—all these activities engage the body and mind. Movement is crucial for healthy brain development, and outdoor play offers the perfect environment for physical and mental growth.

3. Encourages Resilience: Nature isn’t always predictable. It rains, it’s windy, or the ground is uneven. These challenges help children develop resilience and adaptability—skills that are important not just for learning, but for life.

How to Make Nature Part of Your Routine

• Daily Walks: Go for a walk as a family, whether it’s around your neighborhood or in a nearby park. Encourage your child to notice different plants, animals, and changes in the environment. Use technology to enhance this experience—try scanning plants or animals with your phone's camera to learn more about them. There are many apps that can identify species and provide interesting facts, making it a fun and educational adventure.

• Nature Journaling: Give your child a small notebook to document what they observe in nature. This simple activity encourages mindfulness, focus, and learning.

• Unstructured Play: Allow your child to have unstructured playtime in nature. Let them explore, build, and create in their own way. Unstructured play fosters creativity and independence.

Action Step for Parents This week, make a plan to spend time in nature with your child. It could be as simple as a 30-minute walk, a visit to the local park, or even spending time in your backyard. Notice how your child’s mood and focus improve after spending time outdoors.

Ready to Help Your Child Thrive Through Nature? Nature is one of the best tools we have to support our children’s emotional well-being and learning. Let’s make it a regular part of our routine and watch how it helps our children grow.

With nature and nurture,
The Future Way Maker Team