At Educate Excellence, we believe that learning is not just about what happens at a desk. For children in primary school, spending time outside in nature can boost learning, improve mental health and build curiosity about the world around them.
A simple nature walk, whether in a park, garden or even along a quiet street, offers many benefits. In this blog, we will explore how regular outdoor walks help primary-aged children from Year 1 to Year 6 grow emotionally, physically and academically.
What Is a Nature Walk:
A nature walk is any walk that encourages children to explore the outdoors using their senses. It might involve spotting birds, collecting leaves, noticing the shape of clouds or simply listening to the sounds around them.
Nature walks can happen:
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- On a school trip to a forest or nature reserve
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- In a local park or green space with family
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- As part of a lesson, science activity or weekend hobby
The goal is not to walk quickly or reach a destination. Instead, the walk is about slowing down, noticing the environment and connecting with nature.
Why Nature Walks Help Children Learn:
Young children are naturally curious. Nature walks allow them to ask questions, observe closely and develop a love of learning in a hands-on way.
1. Boosts concentration and focus
Spending time outdoors reduces stress and helps children reset. After time in nature, many students return to the classroom more calm, focused and ready to learn.
2. Encourages curiosity and observation
Looking closely at flowers, insects, trees or animal tracks builds science skills like observation and classification. Children learn to ask questions and look for patterns in the world around them.
3. Expands vocabulary and language
Talking about what they see, smell or hear helps children build rich vocabulary. Whether describing a “crunchy leaf” or a “soft feather”, nature gives children new words to explore.
At Educate Excellence, we know that children who enjoy learning are more likely to succeed. That is why we encourage students to make connections between classroom topics and real-world experiences like nature walks.
Physical and Emotional Benefits of Outdoor Time:
Nature walks are not just good for learning, they also help children feel better in their bodies and minds.
1. Supports physical health
Walking improves coordination, balance and stamina. It helps children burn off energy in a healthy way and builds habits for staying active.
2. Reduces stress and anxiety
Nature has a calming effect. Listening to birds, feeling the breeze and watching the trees can help children feel safe, relaxed and grounded.
3. Builds emotional resilience
Spending time outside helps children regulate their emotions. It teaches patience, mindfulness and how to enjoy the present moment.
Children who feel emotionally balanced are more likely to participate in class, ask questions and bounce back from mistakes. This is why we consider emotional wellbeing an important part of every child’s education.
Easy Nature Walk Ideas for Families:
You do not need to live near a forest to enjoy a nature walk. Here are some simple ideas for primary-aged children and their families:
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- Treasure hunt walk – Look for items on a list such as a pinecone, bird feather or yellow flower
- Listening walk – Stop and listen to the different sounds around you such as leaves rustling or birds chirping
- Colour walk – Try to spot as many colours as possible in plants, flowers or bugs
- Story walk – Create a story based on something seen during the walk like an animal track or a hollow tree
Even a 15-minute walk after school or on the weekend can refresh a child’s mind and body.
How Educate Excellence Supports Whole-Child Learning:
At Educate Excellence, we know that every child learns in a unique way. That is why our tutors encourage students to make connections between what they learn in lessons and what they experience in the world.
We support learning through:
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- Engaging real-world examples in maths, science and writing
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- Activities that develop both thinking and emotional skills
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- Encouraging students to notice, reflect and describe, just like they would on a nature walk
Our aim is to help children become curious, confident learners both inside and outside the classroom.
Learning Does Not Only Happen Indoors:
Nature walks remind us that education is all around us. They help children develop focus, creativity, resilience and a deeper appreciation for the world. These skills support both academic learning and personal growth.
If your child enjoys exploring and learning through experience, Educate Excellence is here to help them thrive. Our tutors offer a nurturing environment where children feel supported, understood and ready to grow in every way.