Over the past decade, children have spent less time outdoors and more time in front of screens. At the same time, parents and educators are reporting rising concerns around attention, behavior, and emotional regulation.
Phys.org recently reported on emerging research from Texas A&M University, published on Sage Journals that puts data behind what many parents instinctively feel: Kids don’t just enjoy being outside, they actually function better.
Outdoor Learning Isn’t Just “Recess”
When most people think of outdoor time, they think of short breaks between “real learning.” But nature-based education flips that model.
Instead of stepping outside after learning, nature becomes the classroom itself. According to research led by Texas A&M assistant professor Arianna E. Pikus, that shift radically changes the equation. Pikus’ research focuses on improving access to and the quality of early childhood science education for all children, with an emphasis on using nature as a platform for introducing science to young children.
What the Research Shows
The study, published in American Educational Research Association (AERA) Open, compared children in nature-based learning environments were compared to peers in traditional classrooms.
The results were striking.
Literacy Improves
Children developed stronger early reading and language skills, not through worksheets, but through real-world interaction, storytelling, and exploration.
Emotional Regulation Gets Stronger
More time outside was associated with improved social-emotional development, including cooperation, resilience, and self-regulation.
Physical Health Naturally Increases
Movement isn’t forced; it’s built into the experience. Climbing, balancing, running, and exploring all contribute to healthier development.
Social Skills Expand
Nature invites collaboration. Kids solve problems together, create games and communicate more organically.
Why Outdoor Education Yields Better Results
Researchers are still unpacking the full picture, but one thing is clear….
Less time outside is often paired with more screen time, and that combination may contribute to behavioral challenges.
Nature, on the other hand, does the opposite. Outdoor learning is proven to calm the nervous system; engage curiosity; and encourage movement while reducing overstimulation. In other words, nature brings kids back into balance.
A Surprising Bonus: Outdoor Learning Helps Teachers Too
Early research shows that teachers who spend more time outdoors report lower stress, higher well-being and less burnout. Your kids will already be happy learning in an outdoor environment. The fact that nature classes also produces happier teachers? Well, that’s just the cherry on top; better experiences for everyone involved.
How Can Traditional Learning Parents Incorporate More Outdoor Learning?
You don’t need to overhaul your child’s entire education overnight. However, you can start by asking your teachers or school administrators how much time are the kids spending outside? Are they exploring or just being entertained? And are they learning in a way that matches how kids naturally develop?
Are there opportunities for hands-on, real-world learning beyond the classroom walls? How does the school balance screen time with outdoor or active experiences? Are children encouraged to take safe risks, solve problems, and use their imagination? What changes have you noticed in children when they spend more time outside?
These keep the tone curious (not confrontational) while nudging schools toward more intentional outdoor learning.
How Nature Scouts Collective Brings This to Life
At Nature Scouts Collective, we don’t just take kids outside; we immerse them for 4-5 hours in nature per day, in experiences where learning happens naturally, confidence builds organically and kids reconnect with themselves and the world around them
It’s structured enough to support growth, but free enough to feel like childhood.
Curious About Outdoor Learning For Your Child?
Explore our programs and Summer Nature Camps to see how outdoor learning can transform not just their summer, but their literacy, confidence, focus and joy.
