Research looks at whether stopping children from playing outside can lead to a dislike or blindness to nature

A Masters student from RMIT University is researching whether stopping children from playing outside can lead to a dislike or blindness to nature.

Rebecca Waite, from Chirnside Park, is investigating the benefits of outdoor play experiences for children in their early years as part of her Master of Education studies.

She recently received an Australian Postgraduate Award to assist her studies which focus on the personal experiences of children, interacting in one-off excursions to the natural environment of the Royal Botanic Gardens, in Melbourne. The research will explore how children experience nature and what are the key factors impacting on this experience.

“Due to an increase in urbanisation, indoor recreation and indoor schooling, young children have become isolated from the natural environment,” Ms Waite said.

“Early childhood is a powerful period of our lives. We need to look closely at the environments and experiences we are providing for children. Isolating children from gardens and restricting play with natural materials can lead to the child developing fears, dislike or even blindness to nature.”

Ms Waite has been working closely with the staff at the Royal Botanic Gardens. The new Ian Potter Foundation Children's Garden provides the setting for observing children interacting in and learning from nature.

Multiple research techniques are used to develop a full picture of the child's experience including observation, mapping play areas and discussions with both children and teachers.

The outcomes of the research study will provide insight into the child’s ‘sense of wonder’ and their level of engagement with nature and will form the framework for a professional development program titled ‘The Child in Nature’, to help inform early childhood educators.