What is biophilic design? 3 ways ‘green’ buildings work better for neurodivergent people
This Child in the City article (15 April 2024) describes how incorporating natural elements into the built environment can benefit neurodiverse users.
Early childhood-nature relations in Scottish school-based outdoor learning
NatureScot’s Magnus Magnusson Studentship supported a PhD research project at the University of Edinburgh’s Moray House School of Education and Sport. This research aimed to learn more about the role nature plays in outdoor learning. Read this summary report which outlines the research conducted by Dr Chris Mackie. Check out [...]
Nourishing children’s sense of wonder
The Children & Nature Network have signposted this article by Scottish poet John Burnside in the New Statesman (3 April 2024). This argues that ‘nothing is more character-forming than enthusiasm for the natural world, and the openness and attentiveness it fosters’.
Three-quarters of children want more time in nature
This information has been shared by the Children & Nature Network. In the U.K., a study funded by the National Trust revealed that children are unable to spend as much time in nature as they wish, with accessibility as the main barrier. Another recent study found that “a third of [...]
The impact of counting butterflies on nature connectedness and wellbeing in citizen scientists
This Biological Conservation (Volume 292, April 2024, 110497) article highlights: Citizen science research rarely considers nature connectedness, an important driver of pro-conservation behaviours. A quasi-experimental design explored the impact of citizen science participation on nature connection and wellbeing. Big Butterfly Count participation increased nature connectedness and nature and butterfly noticing, and [...]
Green social prescribing: the power of a natural prescription
This NHS Forest blog post (14 March 2024) explores a natural community-based solution to improving our mental and physical health. This includes the concept of nature connectedness.
Nature of Scotland awards back for 2024!
Enter your own project or nominate the work of others in the Nature of Scotland awards by 28 May to highlight achievements for people and nature. The 10 award categories include a Youth Action Award which is open to groups of young people aged under 25 who are taking action [...]
Nature and our health
Natural England recently published a report summarising evidence of the benefits of nature-based interventions for people, like outdoor exercise, education and gardening. Read Principal Adviser, Ruth Lamont’s blog to learn more about the relationships between nature and human health and wellbeing.
