SMARTER | Kids with nearby nature at school do better academically. Long-term exposure to green space is also positively associated with cognitive functioning

HAPPIER | Engagement with nature is associated with more positive moods. Time in nature promotes self-esteem and reduces risk for mental illness.

MORE CREATIVE | Children who play in natural settings play in more diverse, imaginative and creative ways and show improved language and collaboration skills.

MORE ATTENTIVE | Children who play in natural settings are more resistant to stress; have lower incidence of behavioural disorders, anxiety and depression; and have a higher measure of self-worth.

PHYSICALLY FIT | Children who spend more time outside tend to be more physically active and less likely to be overweight.

HEALTHIER | Children who play regularly in natural settings are sick less often. Mud, sand, leaves, sticks, and pine cones can help to stimulate children’s immune system as well as their imagination.