Australia aims to create the best early learning experiences for children. Our frameworks are not only innovative but also respected worldwide. The National Quality Standard (NQS) emphasizes creating environments that actively support children’s learning. The Early Years Learning Framework (EYLF) encourages teaching based on the latest research.
In early childhood settings, outdoor spaces should reflect our understanding of how nature benefits children’s growth and emotional well-being. But how do we measure this? It’s crucial to integrate this understanding into new early childhood education and care (ECEC) initiatives, making a strong case for an early years climate strategy.
According to the NQS, the physical environment plays a vital role in shaping children’s experiences. The EYLF also highlights the importance of connecting to nature and caring for our environment. However, we currently lack a national way to measure outdoor access to biodiverse settings for children.
Research shows that access to diverse natural environments promotes:
- Emotional regulation
- Executive function skills
- Risk-taking abilities
- Physical health
- Social skills
- Environmental awareness
The first five years of a child’s life are crucial for brain development, making the environment a key factor, not just a backdrop. If we’re serious about enhancing children’s learning, we need to consider how well our environments support their growth.
Some early learning centers are successfully aligning these principles. For example, at Woden Valley in Canberra, a focus on nature-based learning has transformed traditional play spaces into rich natural environments. This change didn’t require major renovations but rather thoughtful leadership and design. As a result, children engaged more deeply with their surroundings, developed ecological language, and exhibited better emotional and social skills.
Yet, this approach isn’t standard across all centers. It raises the question: why does such innovation depend on local leaders instead of being a national standard?
Australia already incorporates sustainability into early learning frameworks and aims for environmental responsibility. However, we lack effective measurement tools to assess children’s access to diverse outdoor spaces. Simply put, if we can’t measure it, we can’t manage it.
The role of a nature pedagogy leader isn’t extra—it’s essential for translating educational ideals into real outcomes. These leaders help bridge intentions with actions in ways that benefit children’s overall development. Implementing a robust nature-focused strategy doesn’t require overhauling existing frameworks; it calls for effective leadership and the right tools to make ecological learning a cornerstone of early education.
By enhancing our early learning systems with a strong focus on nature, we can ensure that all children have the best opportunities to grow, explore, and learn. Research indicates that such environments offer long-lasting benefits, shaping healthier, more engaged citizens for the future.
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