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Why we need nature in the classroom
The new school year is upon us and what better way to get your classroom ready than by introducing some plants to it? Here are just a few of the many benefits of bringing nature into the classroom:
Nature improves students’ cognitive performance
According to a study by the Educational Psychology Review, short term exposure to green environments can help to refresh students’ “batteries” and boost their cognitive performance. In a world where we spend so much time in front of screens, being exposed to greenery can provide a welcome respite for the eyes and the mind.
Nature reduces students’ stress
For many students, the beginning of the school year can be a stressful time. Creating a calm, comfortable classroom environment can help relieve some of that tension. One of the easiest ways to do this is with plants.
According to a paper published by Landscape and Urban Planning, when students have a view of green spaces during school time, they perform significantly better on attention tests and stress recovery.
The stress-relieving benefits of nature aren’t limited to students. Teachers can also benefit from plants in the classroom. According to a paper published by the City of Portland Bureau of Environmental Sciences, increased access to green spaces can reduce psychological distress, depression symptoms, clinical anxiety, and mood disorders in adults.
Nature brings learning opportunities
Plants, in particular, are an underrated learning tool for the classroom. For instance, they can be used to make science classes more exciting. Having plants in the classroom gives students the opportunity to learn about plant cells, plant parts and plant anatomy through hands-on experience.
Plus, if you own a Click and Grow smart garden, your classroom is in for a real treat. Check out this blog post for 9 exciting indoor activities to do with your kids.
Nature teaches students to be responsible citizens
Caring for a plant is similar to caring for an animal. Children need to understand what their plant requires in order to survive, and they need to be responsible and accountable in their care of it. It also gives students a chance to hone their planning, organization and problem solving skills.
Several teachers who use Click and Grow smart gardens feel the same way. Jennifer from Ontario said:
“You learn about the responsibility of caring for a living thing, understanding what a plant needs to grow, and practicing patience while waiting for seedlings to turn into plants.”
Kristin from Estonia shared these thoughts:
“Growing and caring for plants develops children's creativity, analytical skills and improves their ability to pay attention. Through testing, children begin to understand cause-and-effect relationships.”
Conclusion
Whether you’re a teacher or a homeschooling parent, we hope we’ve inspired you to add a little greenery to your children’s surroundings. The presence of plants can bring a sense of calm as you approach a new school year. But don’t just take our word for it! Read some of the stories shared by teachers who use Click and Grow indoor gardens in their classrooms:
Bring nature inside!
Image credit, top to bottom:
Neslihan Gunaydin
Jessica Shea (Smart Garden 9 and Smart Garden 3)
Sarah Thompkins Atherton (Smart Garden 9 PRO and mobile app, available for iOS & android)
