Dirty feet: 4 ways bushwalks make our students smile

JFP Woodbury Boston PS 25 Jun 2020-135.jpg

At Woodbury Boston Primary School, our students learn the Western Australian Curriculum, but we do things a little bit differently. Because we appreciate the beauty and power of nature, we give our students as many opportunities as possible to learn the things they need to learn outside. 

During terms two and three, our students take weekly bushwalks. This time outdoors isn’t just playtime, though. It aligns with our Science, Humanities, Maths, English and Health programs. Most importantly, it makes our students smile. Here are four ways we get those grins flowing.

Time in nature boosts confidence

Balancing on a log or scrambling over boulders helps develop muscles, coordination, and proprioceptive awareness. That last one is important, because it makes kids more aware of their bodies and where they are in space. And when children feel strong, coordinated, and grounded, they feel something else, too: Confident!

JFP Woodbury Boston PS 25 Jun 2020-47.jpg

Climbing that little bit higher, hanging that little bit longer — these are all achievements for children. In nature, there are countless chances for children to have a go. And every one of those opportunities (whether they nail it or need to have another try) boosts confidence and resilience. Win-win.

Time in nature boosts creativity

Making a cubby or playing explorers in the bush are great examples of unstructured play. This is the kind of play that isn’t directed by grown-ups. Rather, kids make up the rules and design their own activities. Letting children be in charge has lots of benefits.

When it comes to class bushwalks, they often have a focus. The fun part is, how the students execute the task is up to them. They might be on the hunt for different textures, shapes, or materials one day. Another day might be all about recording observations or testing out a hypothesis. Beyond the walls of the classroom, kids have a chance to think bigger. This leads to bigger questions and deeper learning.

Time in nature engages the senses

Sure, video games are bright and noisy. But we have more than two senses, don’t we? Being in nature activates all of a child’s senses. The smell of the bush after a big rain can evoke memories; the feeling of sun on the skin gives a sense of well-being; and the taste of honey-suckle is a sweet treat on a hot day. Spotting and hearing the call of a rare bird are exciting experiences.

Bushwalks engage the senses in a way that isn’t overwhelming for children. Rather, it provides a rich, layered experience that benefits kids in so many ways: socially, intellectually, and emotionally. 

JFP Woodbury Boston PS 25 Jun 2020-173.jpg

Time in nature encourages wonder

 Remember when we could just wonder? It was before the computers in our pockets provided instant answers to every question. When you think about it, we’re missing that sense of wonder these days. And there are so many things to wonder about outside:

·        I wonder how tall that tree is?
·        How did that moss get there?
·        Does that bird have a family?
·        Who planted this forest?
·        How did we get here?

These rich questions happen naturally on bushwalks and lead to deep thinking and reflection. Not only that, wondering actually encourages kids to think about the value in the world around them, making them more likely to take care when they’re in the natural environment. 

Getting kids outside since 1980

Getting outside has always been a big part of our ethos at Woodbury Boston. We see engaging with nature as an integral part of school — just as important as reading, maths and technology. That’s why we integrate outdoor learning (as well as off-campus experiences) into as many lessons as possible.

 

Recommended Reading

WB_FinalLogo-Full.jpg

Woodbury Boston Primary School is a progressive independent school nestled in the bush between Denmark and Albany WA. We know that children learn best when they’re happy and having fun. With a strong focus on community, respect, independence and nature-based teaching, our students learn the Western Australian Curriculum and so much more. For more information or to book a personal tour, please ring 9845 1185.

Martha Barnard-Rae