Nature 'important for child development'

Published on 28-08-2009

Summary:

A new film will explore how being close to nature can help children's development, which may interest those attending day camp.

When Learning Comes Naturally has been produced by Jonathan Diamond Associates in association with Sarah Lawrence College's Child Development Institute (CDI) and looks at how kids relate to the natural world.

Rachel Grob, director of the CDI, said it is increasingly recognised that having a strong connection with nature is important in areas of child development such as creativity and a respect for the environment.

In comments which may show the value of day camp nature trails, she explained: "We need to foster the natural love that children have for the environment, and help them develop - artistically, creatively and intellectually - around the sparks that ignite when you take kids outdoors."

In addition, Ms Grob said that parents need to look for opportunities to increase their kids' interaction with the natural world, which could be achieved through day camp.

Earlier this year, a post on the Outdoor Explorers blog said that children attending summer camp can find pleasure and knowledge in nature trails, as it gives them an appreciation of the world around them.