Community| 2 min read

Study: Kids Who Play Outside Grow Up To Protect Nature

A new study finds our outdoor experiences as children influence our love of nature as adults.

It shouldn’t come as a huge shock, but a new study conducted by Catherine Broom from the Faculty of Education at UBC Okanagan found that 87% of respondents to the study who played outside as children continued to love nature as adults. 84% called it a priority.

“Developing positive experiences in nature at a young age can influence our attitudes and behaviours towards nature as adults,” says Broom. “It’s important to study these childhood experiences in order to develop environmental awareness and action in the next generation.”

 

The Study

The study interviewed 50 students at the university between the ages of 18 and 25. 100% of the women interviewed said they loved or somewhat loved nature. 87% of men said the same.

Of course, it’s a very small sample size and more research is needed, but Broom believes she’s onto something. By making programs available, like Girl Guides and Boy Scouts, a new generation of environmentalists could easily be raised. All you have to do is stick them outside.

 

Featured: Kids Treefleece Golden Spruce Crew

 

But sadly, children are spending more and more time inside affixed to televisions and computer screens.

“Our findings imply that providing positive childhood experiences in nature, such as outdoor school programs, may help to develop care for the environment in adults,” said Broom. “However, these may not be sufficient unless programs are building knowledge and self-awareness of environmental stewardship.”

What’s clear is that early education in nature is critical to developing an ecological consciousness.

“Students need to learn and have a conscious understanding that the decisions we make each day can influence our environment, such as where we buy our food and how we use Earth’s natural resources.”

 

Keep Reading

How to Make Natural Dyes at Home


 

By planting ten trees for every item you purchase, it’s our mission to plant 1 billion trees by 2030. Head to our website to learn more and begin your planting journey with 10% off.

Community

Close Bitnami banner
Bitnami