A recent study led by researchers from McGill University and Université de Montréal highlights the remarkable impact of nature on children’s mental health. Spending just two hours a week in natural environments during school hours was found to significantly reduce emotional distress, particularly among children with pre-existing mental health challenges.
This groundbreaking research, published in JAMA Network Open, demonstrates how a low-cost, accessible intervention can benefit vulnerable children and promote overall well-being in school settings.
Nature’s Role in Mental Health
The study, which included over 500 children from various socioeconomic backgrounds across Quebec, revealed significant improvements in children’s behaviour and mental health symptoms after a three-month intervention. Children aged 10 to 12, who spent class time outdoors in nearby parks, showed reduced anxiety, depression, aggression, and social difficulties.
“Children with higher mental health symptoms at the start experienced the most significant improvements,” said senior author Marie-Claude Geoffroy, an expert in youth mental health. This suggests that nature can act as a mental health equaliser, offering particular benefits to those in greater need.
Benefits Observed
Teachers noted that after time spent in nature, children appeared calmer, more relaxed, and attentive in class. This outcome supports earlier observational studies but stands out for using a randomised controlled trial to confirm the positive effects of green spaces.
The program included activities that combined regular classroom lessons with mental health-focused exercises, such as mindful walking, drawing mandalas, and writing haikus. These activities encouraged both emotional regulation and creative thinking.
Tips for Integrating Nature into School
- Utilise Nearby Green Spaces – Schools close to parks or green areas can organise weekly outdoor classes.
- Incorporate Mindful Activities – Activities like nature journaling, tree drawing, or discussing life cycles enhance children’s connection to their surroundings.
- Start Small – Even short walks or outdoor discussions can make a big difference.
- Encourage Unstructured Time – Allow children to explore and interact with nature freely.
Why This Matters
The simplicity of this approach makes it a promising strategy for educators, policymakers, and mental health professionals. The program is inexpensive, requires minimal resources, and poses no risks. It not only supports vulnerable students but also fosters a deeper connection to nature—a crucial step in addressing climate anxiety and promoting sustainability.
As schools look for innovative ways to support students, integrating nature into education could be a game-changer, offering children a pathway to better mental health and academic success.
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