Promoting Child Wellbeing Through Nature Play

Abstract

Children around the world are spending more time indoors compared to previous generations. Developments such as reduced access to natural spaces due to urbanisation, increased use of digital technologies and concerns about the safety of play in natural environments are among the reasons for children having fewer opportunities to experience nature regularly. These shifts mean their childhood experiences differ significantly from those of past generations. Evidence shows that staying indoors can negatively affect children’s development and wellbeing both in the short and long term. Research data indicates that today’s children are less healthy, happy, and socially active than before. This presentation will describe the evidence from a literature review on the impact of nature play on children’s social and emotional wellbeing and offers suggestions on how to foster these beneficial effects. The emphasis will be on early childhood (ages 0–5), which is a crucial period for the development of a child’s connection to nature. We will describe the evidence for what nature play is, what its key features are, and how it benefits children. Participants will gain practical tips for supporting parents in addressing safety concerns and engaging with nature as a family. The presentation will also discuss the strengths and limitations of existing evidence on nature play, offering recommendations for future research and practice. The presentation will encourage participants to develop innovative strategies to support children’s wellbeing through nature play, fostering a healthier, happier, and more socially engaged generation.

Reference

Alla, K., Butler, K., MacDonald, J. B., & Truong, M. (2025). Promoting Child Wellbeing Through Nature Play: What’s Helping and Hindering. Child and Adolescent Mental Health Conference, 24–26 March. Gold Coast, Australia. (Poster)