Benefits of nature engagement for child wellbeing and learning

Amid increased urbanisation, and an increasingly digital world, children are engaging less with the natural environment. Despite these trends, there is a growing awareness about the benefits of nature for child health, wellbeing and learning. On the back of World Environment Day (5 June) this event aims to explore the research and activity being conducted in South Australia to reengage children with nature and better understand the benefits for children directly, society more broadly, and the environment itself.

Our speakers:

• Minister David Speirs MP, Minister for Environment and Water – Parks 2021
• Ms Tassia Oswald, PhD Candidate, School of Public Health, University of Adelaide – From Screen to Green: Nature as an upstream determinant of psychological wellbeing for young people in a high-tech era
• Dr Mark Kohler, Senior Lecturer, School of Psychology, University of Adelaide - The nature of child learning and wellbeing at school
• Dr Katherine Baldock, Program Director, Health Sciences and Public Health, Allied Health and Human Performance, University of South Australia - Exploring nature play, nature-based learning and outcomes for children’s health, wellbeing and development
• Dr Elissa Pearson, Senior Lecturer, Justice and Society, University of South Australia - How time and space in nature fosters children’s development and flourishing – a practitioner perspective
• Barb Jones, (BEd, MEd) Director of Nurtured Learnscapes, Consultancy in Context, Founder of Acacia Bush School Inc, Board member and Coordinator of Acacia Bush Pods – Time & Tide wait for no person!

Chaired by Professor Bob Hill, Director, Environment Institute, University of Adelaide.