For this Heart Matters article, I’d love to go on a journey with you and just take a few minutes to think about the wonderful world of woodland learning for young children. Imagine the joy and excitement on a child’s face as they explore the great outdoors, discovering the wonders of God’s creation. It’s not just about having fun (though that’s a big part of it!), but also about learning and growing in so many amazing ways. Maybe you could find a seat with a view outside and take a cup of tea while we wonder together about why woodland learning is so fantastic for early years education. Let’s draw on our Christian perspective and add in some wisdom from Richard Louv’s Last Child in the Woods.
The Joy of Nature in Early Childhood Education
Nature is like a giant playground and classroom rolled into one. Richard Louv, in his book Last Child in the Woods, talks about how nature sparks creativity and engages all the senses. He says, “Nature inspires creativity in a child by demanding visualization and the full use of the senses. Given a chance, a child will bring their thoughts about the world to the woods, wash it in the creek, turn it over to see what lives on the unseen side of that confusion.” Isn’t that a beautiful image? Children get to touch, see, hear, and even smell the world around them, making learning a full-body experience.
Woodland environments are like a treasure trove for young minds. The different textures, sounds, and sights stimulate curiosity and encourage children to ask questions and solve problems. Louv points out, “An environment-based education movement—at all levels of education—will help students realize that school isn’t supposed to be a polite form of incarceration, but a portal to the wider world.” So true! Kids learn best when they’re actively engaged and exploring.
And let’s not forget the physical benefits. Running around, climbing trees, and balancing on logs help children develop strength, coordination, and confidence. It’s like a natural gym where every activity builds their muscles and their minds.
Nature has this amazing ability to calm and soothe. Louv mentions, “Nature offers healing for a child living in a destructive family or neighbourhood.” In today’s world, where children are often bombarded with stress and screen time, nature provides a much-needed escape and a chance to just be.
Woodland settings also encourage teamwork and cooperation. Building a den or creating a nature art project requires children to communicate and work together, helping them develop important social skills and a sense of community.
From our Christian viewpoint, nature is a testament to God’s glory. The Bible says in Psalm 19:1, “The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands.” When children explore the woods, they see firsthand the beauty and complexity of God’s creation.
Woodland learning also teaches children about caring for our precious world. Genesis 2:15 tells us, “The Lord God took the man and put him in the Garden of Eden to work it and take care of it.” By caring for the environment, children learn to respect and protect God’s creation.
Bringing Woodland Learning into Early Years Education
So, how can we make woodland learning a regular part of early years education? Even if you have no outdoor space, you can plan regular trips to local woodlands or nature reserves. Focus on different themes like seasons, wildlife, or plants to keep things interesting. It’s easy to incorporate nature into everyday lessons. Storytelling under a tree, art projects with natural materials, and watching bugs and minibeasts are all great ways to learn. We can include moments of reflection and prayer during outdoor activities. Encourage children to express gratitude for nature and think about their role as caretakers of God’s creation. We can get parents involved by organising family nature walks and providing ideas for nature-based activities at home. This helps reinforce the connection between home, early years education and nature.
Woodland learning is a fantastic way to nurture children’s cognitive, physical, emotional, social, and spiritual development. By immersing children in nature, we give them experiences that foster a lifelong love of learning and a deep connection to God’s creation. As Richard Louv beautifully puts it, “We have such a brief opportunity to pass on to our children our love for this Earth, and to tell our stories. These are the moments when the world is made whole.” Embracing woodland learning within a Christian framework not only enriches children’s lives but also honours the divine gift of nature.
So, let’s get those little ones out into the woods and watch them grow in every way possible!
Lucy Waterman