Why are we outside?

Look at that image of the sunrise.

Can you imagine the crisp air, the bird's morning chorus, the chill, the aliveness from having woken up way too early, the inner peace and light thoughts. How often do we feel this inside a room? Why do we want our kids outside?

For the same reason we need it as adults.

My whole posture and ability to deal with life transforms. I come back to myself, breathe that big sigh of relief.

I've heard enough people say "I want to do this more often" or "I can take my kids out on the weekend" and then not do it.

We don't think kids can or want to learn absolutely everything outdoors, or that tech is evil (actually I'm a big fan). We're not aiming for all day every day to be spent at Nature School. But we evolved to be outdoors 100% of our life, "indoors" didn't exist while we became homo sapiens, and it's scary to think that with 1 hour outside every day thats only 1/24th of our time (4.1% of the day). There are so many things we can't learn or fully embrace indoors while sitting at a desk,

so let's get out, connect in and let loose!

Current NZ kids' main struggles
and how Nature Schools might help

Mental health and physical health

There are concerns about anxiety, depression, and stress in children.

Fostering a connection with nature and moving

Encouraging outdoor exploration, promoting well-being, and reducing stress. The outdoors strengthens our immune system and can lead to less allergies

Screen time and digital addiction

Worries about excessive screen time, social media, and its impact on physical and mental health

Screen-free learning

Providing alternative, hands-on learning experiences that promote physical and mental health

Academic pressure and stress

Concerns about the emphasis on standardized testing, homework, and academic achievement one-size-fits-all.

Emphasizing experiential learning

Focusing on real-world, interest-driven learning that reduces academic pressure and stress while still gaining skills. Read an article below on how being outdoors actually aids academic learning.

Bullying and social struggles

Worries about social dynamics, friendships, and bullying in traditional school settings

Building a supportive community

Encouraging positive social dynamics, empathy, and inclusivity. Valuing what each person brings.

Lack of physical activity and outdoor play

Concerns about sedentary lifestyles, obesity, and decreased outdoor exploration.

Exactly the opposite

Providing opportunities for movement, exploration, and discovery in nature

Environmental concerns and climate change

Worries about the impact of human activity on the environment and the future of the planet

Teaching Kaitiakitanga
(environmental stewardship)

Educating children about sustainability, conservation, and climate action, aside from building a personal tie with Mother Earth

Individuality and creativity

Concerns about the suppression of creativity, self-expression, and individuality in traditional schools

Nurturing awareness of identity
and personal values

Encouraging self-expression, imagination, and innovation through nature-based learning

Curriculum

Since we get asked all the time, here's what kids will "actually be learning":

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