As you are probably aware, today’s children and families often have limited opportunities to connect with the natural environment.

The consequences of not spending time outdoors can be dire: more stress and anxiety, higher rates of obesity and ADHD, and more.

Therefore, it is unsurprising that there is even a name for it - "nature-deficit disorder".

In the past decade, the benefits of connecting to nature have been well documented in numerous scientific research studies and publications. This body of research shows a positive impact on children’s social, psychological, academic and physical health when they have daily contact with nature.

Play in nature is also essential in developing creativity and problem-solving capabilities.

Studies in the US show that schools that use outdoor classrooms and other forms of nature-based experiential education support significant student gains in social studies, science, language arts, and math.

Connecting with nature also reduces stress.

Even small doses of nature can have profound benefits.

Nature has a calming effect on us, and when our brain is relaxed, our cognitive capabilities are enhanced, and academic performances are improved.

Spending time outdoors is great for teachers too. Researchers found that just an hour or two of outdoor learning every week increases teachers' job satisfaction.

In episode 21 of The Thinking Effect podcast, we talk with our special guest, Dr. Hope Blecher, about the vital role of nature in your student’s wellbeing and academic performance.

Dr. Hope Blecher has 37 years of educational experience spanning kindergarten through college.

She is the founder of hope4education and enjoys serving as an educational consultant.

Hope is also the author of five published books and numerous journal and magazine articles.

Tune in now to learn about easy ways to incorporate nature to develop your students thinking, enhance their wellbeing and advance their academic performance.

And the best part is that you will also greatly benefit from it.

Visit Hope’e website to learn more about her awesome work - www.hope4education.com

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thethinkingeffectpodcast@gmail.com