We did it! More Nature Play for SF Kids.
We’re celebrating the renovation of 10 early childhood outdoor learning spaces created with natural materials that inspire learning, movement, and imaginative play. See photos of the transformations and learn more about the unique partnerships that made this possible.
Nature for Every Child, Every Day.
“Every child, in every neighborhood, should have the chance to play and explore in nature. Research tells us that being in nature improves our mental and physical health, reduces stress, and even helps heal trauma. All San Franciscans should have access to these health benefits.”
—Mayor London Breed
San Francisco Children & Nature
A CITY-WIDE COLLABORATIVE
SF Children & Nature is a cross-sector collaborative that works to ensure all children & youth growing up in the city have the same opportunities to PLAY, LEARN and GROW in NATURE.
Founded in 2017, SF Children & Nature now includes active participation from over 40 government agencies, non-profit institutions, and community-based organizations.
Highlights
Through collective action, we’ve been making strides towards our vision of equitable nature connection for youth in San Francisco by expanding opportunities for nature experiences in the key realms of childhood — early education, schools, and neighborhoods. Together we have:
Developed and promoted Nature Exploration Areas across the City
Renovated 21 early childhood outdoor learning spaces with logs, boulders and plants
Collaborated to increase opportunities for children and families to connect with nature
News
Nature Exploration Area Construction and Installation Workshop
The Nature Exploration Area at Rolph Nicol Jr. Playground was transformed over one weekend.
Libraries and Parks: A Partnership You’ll Want to Check Out
The San Francisco Public Library is partnering with city, state, and national parks to develop a range of nature-based programs.
Expanding Nature-Inspired Play Spaces in Child Care Sites Across San Francisco
We did it! Ten early childhood play spaces transformed.
Nature Play Day was a TREE-mendous success!
150 preschoolers came out for a day of play and exploration at Heron Head’s Park.
Free and low-cost strategies for “Naturing-Up” your outdoor space
Tips and tricks for “naturing-up” a preschool outdoor play space with low cost materials.
New outdoor playspace Wander Woods opens at the California Academy of Sciences
New garden playspace inspires creativity and imaginative play, offering children the opportunity to foster meaningful connections with nature through hands-on discovery
‘Green’ Makeovers of Child Care Spaces Connect San Francisco’s Youngest Children to Nature
9 Preschool Play spaces transformed
Imagination Runs Wild at San Francisco’s New Nature Exploration Area
New Nature Exploration Area opens at Heron’s Head Park.
Youth Spotlight: Gardening for Good
High Schooler Na’im Pierce is growing fresh produce for Bayview residents to combat food inequality.
Little loose parts
As my basket fills with the tiniest of seeds, I am grateful for having been a teacher.
Media
San Francisco Children & Nature collaborative, we have built a coalition of over 40 organizations and city departments all working together to more equitably connect all children to the many benefits of nature. Here’s our story of collaboration, partnerships and a shared vision of equity.
In 2017 San Francisco became one of 7 pilot cities of CCCN initiative which has now grown to include 18 cities nationwide. Watch this short video to learn more about this work here in San Francisco, Houston, and Rochester.
Learn more https://childrenandnature.org/cities