Connecting with nature

Woy Woy South Public School students will connect with nature for Planet Ark's Schools Tree Day on Friday, July 28.

Schools Tree Day aims to teach children from a young age how to care for and protect the natural environment.

Students also learn about the important role nature plays in the life of the planet and why it must be protected.

"It's an opportunity for students to plant and care for the seedlings as they grow, and a hands-on experience which also beautifies school grounds," said National Tree Day manager Ms Debbie Agnew.

She said that participating in Schools Tree Day was a fun and exciting way for students to have an authentic nature experience and benefit from learning outside.

"Planet Ark's research shows that students who take part in outdoor learning programs develop key skills like emotional intelligence, grit or resilience and problem solving.

"They also perform better in reading, writing, maths and science, with 77 per cent of teachers reporting student improvement in standardised tests.

"Time spent in nature also reduces stress, and enhances concentration and creativity," Ms Agnew said.

SOURCE:

Media release, 13 Jul 2017

Carol Warwick, Planet Ark