September 6th

By Mutt Mulligan

Study: exposure to nature nurtures psychological, social & pro-environmental benefits in kids

The benefits of children spending time in nature are numerous and well-documented. They include lower stress levels, improved memory, better attention and more. However, many of the studies examining the effect of childhood nature exposure rely on adults recalling their childhood memories.

Canadian researchers sought to conduct a study that exposed children to a natural setting and an indoor one and then compared their experiences. For their research, scientists took 80 public school children on two field trips – one to a natural area and the other to an aviation and space museum. After the students spent time outdoors, they reported significantly more positive affect, higher overall connectedness to nature, and more willing to protect the environment.

Read more about the study methodology and results here.

Do you actively encourage your kids to be “outsiders” by spending time in your green space? It can be as easy as walking out your backdoor! Learn more about the benefits of spending time outside by visiting SaveLivingLandscapes.com. For more inspiration for appreciating, learning about and enjoying the living landscapes that surround us the “TurfMutt way,” go to TurfMutt.com.