A new study has found that spending time in nature can significantly improve the mental health of children, particularly those with pre-existing emotional challenges. The research, published in JAMA Network Open, demonstrates that even simple, low-cost programs involving time outdoors can lead to remarkable benefits for children aged 10 to 12.
Nature as a Mental Health Equalizer
The study, conducted in Quebec, Canada, involved over 500 schoolchildren who participated in a three-month program in the spring of 2023. Researchers found that children with the most significant mental health issues—such as anxiety, depression, aggressiveness, and social difficulties—experienced the greatest improvements after spending two hours a week in natural environments.
Study senior author Professor Marie-Claude Geoffroy of McGill University highlighted the transformative effects:
“We found that children with higher mental health symptoms at baseline showed greater reductions in symptoms following the intervention.”
The intervention acted as a mental health equalizer, reducing disparities among children and offering particular support to those most vulnerable.
The Program: Learning in Nature
As part of the program, teachers moved regular class activities—such as lessons in math, science, and languages—into local parks or green spaces for two hours each week. Additionally, they included 10- to 15-minute activities aimed at promoting mental health. Examples included:
- Drawing a tree
- Writing haikus
- Mindful walking
The study’s first author, Tianna Loose from the University of Montreal, emphasized the simplicity and accessibility of the approach:
“The intervention was low-cost, well-received, and posed no risks, making it a promising strategy for schools with access to greenspaces.”
Positive Outcomes for Students and Teachers
At the end of the program, teachers reported that students were calmer, more relaxed, and more attentive in class after their outdoor sessions. The most significant behavioral improvements were observed in children who had exhibited high levels of distress at the start of the study.
The findings build on observational research and mark the first time a randomized controlled trial has been used to evaluate the mental health benefits of nature for children. The study aligns with a recent UNICEF report underscoring the importance of green spaces for childhood development.
Inspiration from the Pandemic
The project was inspired by the COVID-19 pandemic, when concerns arose about children spending excessive time indoors. Professor Geoffroy shared how her own experiences influenced the study:
“My kids and I spend lots of time in parks, so I’ve seen the benefits of spending time in nature, both for myself and for them. I thought, maybe we can create a free and accessible intervention for school children to experience similar benefits.”
Next Steps: Teenagers and Climate Anxiety
The research team plans to expand their work to include teenagers, co-designing nature-based programs aimed at reducing climate anxiety, improving well-being, and fostering a deeper connection to the environment.
Co-author Professor Sylvana Côté from the University of Montreal noted the broader implications of the findings:
“This suggests that nature-based programs may offer targeted benefits for children with higher levels of mental health vulnerabilities and potentially act as an equalizer of mental health among school-age children.”
A Simple Yet Powerful Solution
With schools increasingly recognizing the value of mental health support, this study highlights the potential of outdoor learning programs. By incorporating nature into the school day, educators can provide children with a calming, restorative environment that improves emotional well-being, focus, and social interaction—all without significant costs or risks.
As schools consider innovative ways to support students, nature-based interventions offer a promising solution that benefits both children and their communities.