OUTDOOR LEARNING: NATURE & WELLBEING

The correlation between physical and emotional well-being and connectedness to nature has been well-established in academic literature. When humans are exposed to stimuli in nature, cognitive performance improves and physical and mental stress are diminished. We are often most active and most inspired when we are in natural settings. Similarly, you will not walk into an Outdoor Learning class at ISD and find drowsy, uninterested children; instead, expect to see curious and spirited learners who are engaged in their activities. 

In addition to children being more physically active outdoors, we also work to support healthier eating habits and better knowledge of nutrition by growing our own fruit and vegetables. Children feel a sense of pride harvesting and eating the produce they have carefully tended over weeks or months. Even the pickiest little eater is willing to sample broccoli or radishes they have grown themselves! These experiences offer our children a positive foundation for lifelong, healthy eating habits.
Importantly, outdoor learning fosters a meaningful connection to the natural environment that allows for appreciation of, and respect for, biodiversity. Our programme helps to cultivate an environmental ethic as well as positive, sustainable behaviours that will endure throughout students' lives. When all is said and done, we want our learners to love the outdoors, now and in the future.Kayleigh Waterworth
Outdoor Learning Teacher