Thriving Outside: The Impact of Schoolyard Naturalizations on Students' Outdoor Activities and Attitudes Toward Nature

Janet Loebach, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health

Recent studies have illustrated that positive experiences in natural environments during childhood can manifest as strong pro-environmental attitudes and a continuing sense of connectedness to nature in adulthood. Children’s interactions in nature-rich environments not only support developmentally valuable play and learning experiences but can instill an appreciation for nature that encourages children to become environmental stewards. Naturalizing outdoor spaces at elementary schools is a critical design intervention strategy which could significantly increase children’s opportunities for daily playful contact with nature, as well as provide diverse environments to support nature-based learning. Additional research is needed to improve our understanding of the specific ways that naturalized schoolyards can support increased interaction with and learning from nature, as well as foster children’s affection for the natural world.

This paper presents findings from two studies of the impacts of increased naturalization of elementary schoolyards on students’ outdoor activities and attitudes. The first study outlines the influence of participating in the design and installation of a natural play and learning yard, and the increased opportunity to be ‘in’ nature at school, on feelings of connectedness to nature among students aged 9 to 12 years. Findings include how changes in attitudes differed by students’ age and gender. The second study utilizes behavior mapping to highlight changes in outdoor activities among 4 to 5-year-old kindergarten students, after a schoolyard renovation incorporated more natural features and materials and provided more play and learning opportunities in and with nature. Findings from environmental audits and walk-along staff interviews highlight the role of naturalized spaces in facilitating young students’ learning activities and nature interactions. Together these studies illustrate how naturalized schoolyards can facilitate children’s daily interaction with and learning from nature, and positively influence their attitudes towards the environment.