Nature provides a sense of calm and tranquility for children from "summary" of Last Child in the Woods by Richard Louv
In the wild places, the places that we call nature, children find their most profound sense of peace and tranquility. Surrounded by the towering trees, the melodious birdsong, the gentle rustling of leaves in the breeze, they are enveloped in a world that is far removed from the chaos and noise of modern life. In nature, they can truly be themselves, free from the constraints and expectations of society.
The natural world has a way of calming the restless minds of children, soothing their anxieties and worries. It offers a refuge from the constant stimulation of screens and devices, allowing them to simply be in the moment, to breathe in the fresh air, to feel the warm sun on their skin. Nature provides a sense of grounding, a connection to something greater than themselves, something timeless and eternal.
When children are surrounded by nature, they are encouraged to engage in unstructured play, to explore and discover the wonders of the world around them. They can climb trees, build forts, splash in streams, and let their imaginations run wild. In these moments of freedom and creativity, they find a sense of joy and contentment that is difficult to replicate in the artificial environment of a classroom or a playground.
Nature also has a way of instilling in children a sense of wonder and awe. The vastness of the mountains, the intricacy of a spider's web, the delicate beauty of a flower - these are all reminders of the magic and mystery of the world we inhabit. In nature, children learn to appreciate the small things, to slow down and pay attention to the details that often go unnoticed in their busy lives.
In the quiet moments spent in nature, children have the opportunity to reflect and introspect, to connect with their inner selves and with the world around them. They learn to appreciate the interconnectedness of all living things, to see themselves as part of a larger whole. Nature teaches them patience, resilience, and empathy, qualities that are often overlooked in the fast-paced, competitive world of today.
In the end, nature provides a sanctuary for children, a place where they can escape from the pressures and expectations of society, a place where they can find peace and tranquility in the midst of chaos. It is a gift that we must cherish and protect, for the sake of our children and for the sake of the planet itself.
