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Why is outdoor learning important for children’s mental health and wellbeing?


Clare Cribb Content Writer at Twinkl


Children are spending less and less time outdoors due to a lack of green spaces, digital technology and parental fears over child safety. This article explores how children’s mental health and wellbeing are being affected.


What does the data say?


A recent survey of parents has revealed that three–quarters of children in the UK spend less time outside than prison inmates! Lack of green spaces, digital technology and parental fears over child safety has resulted in children spending on average less than an hour outside each day. Meanwhile, mental health issues in young people are increasing, with 1 in 10 five to sixteen–year–olds facing a mental illness. Schools have the opportunity to make a huge difference to children’s mental health by increasing the amount of time spent outdoors.


Why is outdoor learning important for children’s mental health?


Reduces stress and anxiety: When children spend too long sitting still inside a classroom, they can become restless and inattentive. Simply being outside in the fresh air, offers children the chance to relax, reflect and have a break from the routine.


Boosts confidence and self–esteem: By engaging in outdoor activities, challenges and teamwork, children can grow in confidence and self–esteem.


Boosts ‘happy chemicals’: Serotonin and dopamine are two important chemicals released in the brain known as ‘happy chemicals’. They help to regulate mood and emotion and are linked to happiness. Serotonin is released during physical activity, whilst dopamine is released through problem–solving activities or physical challenges. Both serotonin and dopamine help children deal with


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