Connecting with and learning in nature is one of the best things we can do to support children’s growth, development and wellbeing. And to support our own wellbeing also.
I believe, and emerging evidence backs this, that time in nature is critical for children’s development and wellbeing in every major way.
Being in nature promotes a sense of joy and wonder, it fully engages children in learning. It helps build confidence, resilience and supports mental, emotional, social, physical and spiritual wellbeing. It encourages creativity, curiosity and care for self, others and nature. When children connect with and experience nature they naturally learn about, understand and fall in love with it, this translates to caring for and protecting nature in a meaningful and enduring way.
I’m Kathy Broadhead, I am a qualified and experienced environmental educator with over 20 years working in a variety of education roles in NZ and abroad. I am passionate about collaborative learning between child, educator and nature. My programmes combine intentional experiences, child-led learning and free nature play to support the development of the whole child. I am a trained teacher with a Master’s Degree in Education, Diploma of Teaching and Bachelor’s Degree in Science. In my experience though nature is the best teacher of all.
Nature has been a constant source of learning, growth and development in my own life. I’ve experienced her phenomenal healing power and she supports my wellbeing everyday. As such, I love sharing the magic of nature with children and supporting teachers to do the same. Seeing the enormous benefits that come out of this connection with nature is the highlight of my work.
With love, Kathy