Innate Nature Connection in Tamariki/Children
A friend recently said something that got me thinking... "Babies are innately connected with nature, and over time, we become disconnected."
So, I wonder... how do we help more tamariki/rangatahi stay connected?
We reached out to our community to see what they thought:
“I think gardening is one great way. Growing a garden. And also nature walks.” - Kaitlyn
“I believe in making spending time in nature the norm! Doing as much as you can outside whilst their young, and exploring epic places so they fall in love with her and stay connected.” - Jess
“By encouraging curiosity and adventure, we remind children that nature is not just a place, but an experience. When they see the impact they can have on the environment and wildlife, it can foster a deeper love and respect for the world around them.” - Brd
“Modelling your own way of connecting and sharing all the ways you can be connected to nature. Tree planting, gardening, bird watching, tree admiring, outdoor sports and so much more!” - Ella
“Stop and smell the flowers with them. Don't rush. Even if that means you're sitting on the ground with them counting little rocks.” - Cirrus
“We talked about this at the NZ plant conservation network conference last week. How lucky we are as people who work in nature, and how we must work harder to ensure others get these experiences as well. In short there is no easy answer, but creating opportunities for young (and very young) people to be in nature is arguably one of the most important steps we can take.” - Taylor
“I saw a different thing recently about asking questions and curiosity that is kinda drilled out of kids really early! I think exploring nature is totally an intrinsic thing that we should definitely be keeping into adulthood!!” - Anthea
“Lots of hiking, picnicking camping out in the countryside. Playing using things like fallen twigs, leaves etc taking care they are not harmful to people. Lots of exploring, playing, observing and helping in the home garden. Picnics in the backyard etc.” - Sharyn
“Through passing on your own values and love for nature! If an outing is a hike up a mountain instead of going somewhere like chipmunks then it teaches kids to value different things".” - Dani
