Nature and wellbeing
Children need our support and guidance now more than ever.
Peter Wanless, CEO of NSPCC:
“There is no doubt that the Coronavirus pandemic has had a direct impact on the mental health of many of our children ... It is concerning that we have seen an increase in children under 11 reaching out to us for support, emphasising that the impact of this pandemic is being felt by our youngest children too.”
Barnardo’s Chief Executive, Javed Khan:
“The coronavirus lockdown has felt like a lifetime for children and young people, and the negative effects could last a real lifetime if they do not have the right support for their mental health and wellbeing.”
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Research into the relationship between being in nature and physical and mental health is now well established. And the findings are overwhelmingly positive.
Scientific studies show that when we spend time in nature:
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We experience a significant drop in the stress hormone cortisol - nearly 20% after 30 minutes
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Young people’s self esteem in particular improves
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ADHD symptoms in children reduce
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Urban green space is as good the countryside when it comes to helping us feel better
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With the safer status of being outdoors rather than in, and the challenges children are having to face as they adjust to the 'new normal' world during this global pandemic, it makes perfect sense to take your classes outdoors with a focus on your pupils’ recovery.
I hope to be working with you and your pupils in the fresh air very soon.
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