How we can bring our children closer to nature again, and thus do something for the sustainable development of our planet in the long term.
Alienation from nature describes the state in which children and young people lose their connection to nature. They often no longer know the simplest plants and animals, do not know which fruits grow in the forest and show little interest in their environment. This trend has been documented for years by studies such as the "Youth Report on Nature", which highlights the younger generation's dwindling connection to nature.
In our modern society, children have less and less contact with nature. They spend the majority of their time indoors, whether at school, at home or in leisure activities that rarely take place outside. This alienation from nature has far-reaching consequences for children's development and well-being. But what exactly is alienation from nature, what effects does it have and what responsibility do we have as parents?
Children who spend little time in nature are often less physically active, which has a negative impact on their health. They are less likely to have the opportunity to develop their motor skills and are more likely to be overweight. Alienation from nature also has a psychological impact: children who regularly play outside are demonstrably less stressed and have a lower risk of mental illness. Nature offers them space for creativity and relaxation, which is often lacking indoors.
A major factor in the alienation from nature is the so-called culture of fear. Many parents are afraid to let their children play outside unsupervised. They fear accidents, criminal assaults or that their children could get lost. These fears are reinforced by media reports of violent crime and accidents. As a result, parents severely restrict their children's freedom of movement, which leads to them spending less time in nature.
Another phenomenon is the overprotectiveness of many parents. Helicopter parents in particular, who constantly monitor their children, prevent their children from experiencing nature independently. Children need to learn to assess risks and act confidently in nature. However, if they are constantly guarded, they develop less self-confidence and are later less able to cope independently in nature.
Parents have an important role model function. Children whose parents regularly spend time in nature and experience it in a positive way often adopt this attitude. It is crucial that parents give their children the opportunity to discover nature on their own.
Tips for parents to bring their children closer to nature:
- Regular outings into nature: Take your children on regular outings into nature. Go to the forest, visit parks and spend lots of time in the garden. Explain them the different plants and animals that you discover. These shared experiences not only strengthen your children's knowledge, but also their relationship with nature.
- Encourage physical activity: Encourage your children to play outside and get moving. Whether climbing trees, running across meadows or simply romping around in the garden - exercise in nature is good for them. They develop their motor skills and are more balanced and happy.
- Overcome your fears: Reflect on your fears and learn to overcome them. Trust your children and encourage them to explore nature on their own. Accompany them at the beginning to give them security and give them more and more freedom.
- Avoid being overcautious: let your children play freely and only intervene when really necessary. Children need to experience nature independently in order to be able to assess risks and develop self-confidence.
- Be a role model: regularly spend me-time in nature and show your children how beautiful and valuable it is. Whether on walks in the forest, picnics in the park or gardening together - your enthusiasm for nature will be passed on to your children.
Our children's alienation from nature is a serious problem that has long-term effects on their health and environmental awareness. Parents have a great responsibility to bring their children closer to nature again. By overcoming our fears and creating space for our children, we can help them develop a deeper connection with nature. This is not only important for their personal development, but also for the future of our planet. As Sir David Attenborough says:
"If children don't grow up knowing about nature and appreciating it, they won't understand it. And if they don't understand it, they won't protect it. And if they don’t protect it, who will?"
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