The Benefits of Nature-Based Learning in Preschool Education

Nature-based learning is an approach that connects children with nature to enhance their physical, learning skills and development. Classroom teaching imparts theoretical knowledge and inculcates discipline. On the other hand, nature-based education introduces children to the outside world.

This blog provides information about various aspects of nature-based learning and its benefits for the preschool child.

Preschool activities and curriculum that constitute nature-based learning.

Outdoor learning

Preschools provide an outdoor space where children can freely explore and connect with nature under the supervision of teachers. This could be a garden or local park within the premises or in the surrounding area.

Children can choose anything of their interest and learn by watching and playing with it. The open space allows them to ask questions and helps improve their practical learning skills.

Story and literature

Preschools include books, stories and poems about nature in their curriculum. It gives children information about the characters and describes elements of nature such as plants, animals and clouds.

Lessons and songs teach children more about what they see every day outside their homes. They also help them to recognize interesting things told in the class through stories, songs and poems.

Field trips or nature walks

Preschools encourage parents to take their children on regular walks to the parks, allowing them to ask and answer questions about the activities around them and interacting with them about the same.

Preschools can organize field trips to nearby forest areas, farms, and botanical or zoological gardens. These places provide ample opportunities to connect with nature and witness exciting events.

Animal conversation

Visiting local zoos, aquariums, and wildlife sanctuaries give children a chance to see, play, and interact with animals. Under the guidance of teachers, they can learn about the behavior of animals practically by observing them. These experiences spark curiosity in children and lay the foundation for appreciating the diversity among living beings.

How does nature-based learning benefit your child?

Better motor skills

Outdoor activities allow children to engage in unstructured play, such as running, skipping, skipping, climbing, and balancing. Therefore, they promote physical activity and motor skills.

In the process of exploring nature, they engage in multiple activities simultaneously. It helps improve the coordination of their hands, legs and torso. These things help in acquiring artistic skills like dancing and athletic sports.

Better emotional and social development

Nature promotes emotional well-being by providing a calming and nurturing environment. Spending time in natural environments reduces stress and helps children stay active.

This is even more beneficial for children who easily become anxious in crowds. Outdoor activities help them overcome their fears and gradually socialize and interact with other children.

Improve focus and concentration

Generally, children have short attention spans. They get easily distracted by their surroundings. Nature-based learning attracts their interest and improves their concentration. This, in turn, has a positive impact on their learning abilities both inside and outside the classroom.

Better language and communication skills

While exploring nature, children are introduced to many things for the first time. It makes them improve their vocabulary in the process of learning. Interaction with other preschool children during outdoor activities improves their descriptive language.

Foundation for Lifelong Learning

Nature-based learning ignites the spirit of exploration, inquiry and discovery by creating immense curiosity. 

Conclusion

In conclusion, preschool education enhanced by nature-based learning promotes the holistic development of children. It lays a strong foundation for further education and children's learning abilities.

At Grow Inn Steps Preschool, every child gets ample opportunity to learn through hands-on experience under friendly and experienced teachers.

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