Engaging young children (0-5 years) in nature play

Overview

Although research evidence has highlighted various benefits of nature play, there is less evidence about what factors impact children’s engagement in nature play, especially young children’s. Knowledge about the factors affecting levels of engagement with nature play during a child’s early years can assist practitioners to support parents in: (a) identifying or creating opportunities for young children to engage in nature play; (b) understanding, assessing and managing risk in nature play; and (c) safely supporting children in nature play activities.

This practice guide synthesises research evidence relating to nature play and the engagement of children in their early years (i.e. 0–5 years – hereafter referred to as ‘young children’). It covers:

This resource is for: (a) practitioners who work with young children and/or their caregivers, and (b)
managers and program designers in early childhood and parenting support services. It will be particularly useful for social workers, child care workers, playgroup workers and managers, and other workers in early childhood and parenting support services. It is expected that those working in early childhood education, child development and maternal and child health will also find this resource useful.

Reference

MacDonald, J.B., Butler, K., & Alla, K. (2023). Engaging young children (0–5 years) in nature play (Practice Guide). Melbourne: Child Family Community Australia, Australian Institute of Family Studies.