Beyond correlational studies exploring the benefits of nature exposure, there have been studies assessing interventions that aim to improve nature connection in children and adolescents. A feeling of connection with nature or ‘nature connectedness’ describes our attitude towards nature, primarily reflecting the emotional, cognitive, and experiential aspects.

 

This meta-analysis of 29 studies explored the impact of experimental manipulations on nature connection in young people (less than 18 years old). The results showed that such interventions had a significant positive effect on nature connections in children and adolescents. The presence of environmental education programmes, the quality of engagement with nature (passive or active), and the duration and frequency of intervention (one-off, repeated, or residential) were predictors of effect size. The quality of engagement, such as active participation in environmental education programmes or an intensive residential experience, may be more important than the type of natural setting.

 

This study confirms that thoughtfully and intentionally designed interventions can improve nature connection, leading to better mental health and well-being in children and adolescents. Those impacts typically involve active and intensive engagement that creates the conditions for young people to connect with nature. When people actively engage with nature by noticing, appreciating, or experiencing it, they develop a deeper connection with the natural world. More importantly, it is necessary for any organisation or policy to focus its efforts on providing the opportunity for repeated noticing and engagement with nature, as well as on achieving widespread recognition of the interconnectedness of nature and human well-being.