Why Nature-Based Art Outdoors?
Do you want to help foster a relationship with the 
natural world through art with children? Do you want to tap into nature-based art activities and introduce innovative projects into your program and/or family? Do you want to create a one-of-a-kind Outdoor Nature Art program?
Let’s first look at the question “Why Teach Outdoors?” There’s been a shift in how our children spend time. Their play has changed. If we look at some of the statistics, it’s reason enough for all of us to get outdoors.
The Center for Disease Control reports:
- 60% increase in overweight adult Americans
- 36% increase in overweight children ages 2-5
- 2 out of 10 of America’s children are clinically obese
Do you know that Richard Louv has dubbed the term Nature-Deficit Disorder?
He notes:
- Diabetes is a National concern
- Attention deficit disorder and childhood depression if off the charts
- Antidepressants for kids has doubled in the last 5 years.
With these statistics, it’s important to find creative ways to reconnect children with nature. Nature Art is a great solution and an incredible vehicle for teaching and learning outdoors.
Nature Art: 
- inspires children to explore the world of nature.
- nurtures the artist within all of us.
- invites wonder and curiosity especially when working with nature’s loose parts.
- offers a new way of looking at outdoors.
- develops a unique sense of creativity in both children and adults.
Now I want to hear from you. What is your favorite Nature-Based Art Activity? Share in the comments below and join the conversation in our Outdoor Classrooms Facebook Group.
