Wild Kindling
Deep Nature Connection
WHY IS IT IMPORTANT?
We strive to develop bonds with children and the natural world around them, that in turn forms a foundation for environmental stewardship, and belonging to place.
Through play in nature, children learn how to invite others to play, negotiate play schemes, compromise, self-direct, generate creative ideas, role play, take risks, assess their own abilities, regulate emotions, test their limits mentally and physically, develop a sense of confidence and so much more. All of these attributes of unstructured / free play, lay the foundations for future success in career and relationships as an adult.
Nature is a source of healing for children’s emotional difficulties.
It can offer nurturing solitude. Taking a few deep breaths of fresh air and finding a grassy are or tree to sit under, can help our bodies recalibrate and gain perspective and relax. Sitting in awe and wonder of the natural world can help us relax and feel calm.
Wild Kindling programs help children build relationships with nature so it is somewhere they can always go to be listened to and make them feel like they belong. Nature is imperfectly perfect.
It is important to let children’s imaginations run; to see where the path takes them or where the water leads. To allow them to climb trees and find their strength limitations. Natural spaces and materials allow children to use their limitless imagination – a stick can be a wand, a sword, a shelter, a drawing, a fireplace and so much more. The use of natural items in so many ways promotes imagination and creativity.
Another added benefit of nature play is that it encourages
deeper friendships which evolve out of shared experiences, particularly due to the fact that it is in an environment where
all of the senses are activated.
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How our children respond to nature now, will impact how they
raise their own children and future generations. It will shape the configurations and behaviours of our cities and homes.