The earth has music for those who listen.
– George Santayana

Dr. Samuel Dennis, University of Wisconsin-Madison, and colleagues, have conducted three major studies spanning nearly ten years, offering compelling evidence for the value for children of learning in natural outdoor classrooms. Among the findings:

“This post-occupancy study examined the extent to which these spaces produced their intended outcomes. Overall, our findings support existing theories linking nature-based outdoor education to positive learning and developmental outcomes including enhanced imaginative play, increased physical and mental well-being, and environmental stewardship.”

“Most educators felt that in the natural outdoor classroom:

• they supported children’s learning and development in all domains with the most frequent being creativity and imagination and social emotional development;
• they could observe children’s interests/needs more than on a traditional playground;
• children with identified special needs were more engaged in the outdoor classroom than indoors;
• they saw positive or appropriate developmental behaviors in children;
• they noticed restorative aspects to children’s behavior when returning indoors;
• they themselves felt refreshed and patient and therefore better able to respond to children’s need;
• they felt increased effectiveness in their work as they were able to adjust activities to the appropriate level for children and more able to calm upset children.”

Want to learn more about developing a natural outdoor classroom? Here are two great opportunities for you:

Join the free live online Nature Explore Workshop, Ask a Designer, on June 13, 2025 at 1 pm Eastern US time.

Register for the free Early Childhood Investigations Webinar, Considering the Climate of Your Outdoor Spaces: How heat and shade impact health and play, and what you can do about it by Kirsten Haugen on June 12, 2025 at 2 pm Eastern US time.