Research shows that time in nature improves children’s emotional regulation, social interactions, problem-solving and feelings of well-being. With the COVID-19 pandemic taking a toll on the mental health of most people, especially young learners, Social Emotional Learning (SEL) has become a vital aspect of many classrooms.
Mass Audubon’s Wachusett Meadow Wildlife Sanctuary collaborated with Gardner Head Start to integrate nature-based teaching and learning into the school’s social-emotional curriculum. Through the education and engagement of the teachers, children and families, this year-long program used the natural world to support the Head Start goals of healthy social and emotional development in young children.
Not only did this program have a significant impact on the young learners, but also their teachers and families.
You can support programs like this when you donate to our Environment and Animal Welfare Fund.