by Anamari Dorgan, Community Services& Education
We were exploring a forested trail when the lightning came and the skies opened up, forcing us to seek shelter. The storm eventually passed, and as we returned to the car, lo and behold there were puddles galore. So what did my 3- and 4-year-olds instinctively do? They galloped and jumped and splashed the whole way back, giggling uncontrollably, as did I. They played until they were sopping wet and covered with mud from head to toe. And it was wonderful.
Play is essential to childhood development, and although board games, Legos and play sets are important, they can’t beat the benefits of unstructured “nature play.” Fueled by our species’ innate connection with the outdoors, kids engaging in nature play walk on top of fallen logs, lead off-trail expeditions through tall grasses, find forts in the low-hanging branches of trees, or turn over rocks to discover what lies beneath.
Nature play is fun, and behind the scenes it’s continuously doing amazing things for young bodies and brains. It often lasts longer than indoor play and is more complex and self-directed. It presents irregular, challenging spaces that help kids recognize, assess and negotiate risk while gaining confidence and competence. As much as we parents want to guide our kids’ development, nature play encourages learning through independent trial and error. Recent research tells us even more.
The world beyond our backyards can be scary for kids, but we can do a lot to remove some of the anxiety. Get your kids talking about nature. Bring bits of it into your home.
When outside, encourage independent exploration and risk-taking, and by all means let them get dirty!
The Forest Preserve District has programs for kids from tots to teens that present new experiences and ways to safely enjoy nature play. This spring’s schedule starts on Page 8.
You can also request a customized adventure just for your group by calling 630-933-7247. istock.com/FatCamera
Kick Around a Creek
First-hand experiences in nature “off the beaten path” give a huge boost to a child’s body, mind and well-being. Fortunately, DuPage preserves have plenty of neat places to poke around.
At Kline Creek Farm, a recently cleared area near the parking lot gives kids room to run, explore and feel the creek through their fingers. A footpath along the water has fallen logs to climb and rocks to overturn to see what lives below. But grownups, don’t forget to embrace your own “inner child” while you’re there. Nature play is great for everyone!
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3S580 Naperville Road
Wheaton, IL 60189
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