I watched a webinar hosted by Texas Children in Nature and entitled, “Nature-Based Social Emotional Learning”
A few take-aways from this discussion:
When we connect to nature we develop a deeper understanding and appreciation and it helps promote our emotional development. Connecting to nature aids in self-regulation, critical thinking, problem-solving, and social skills.
If you can’t get outside, you can bring nature inside. Use a box for sensory play and put in stones, shells, leaves and sticks. Open the windows to get the fresh air. Bubbles are great because the long-breathe has a calming effect on us.
Use nature for brain breaks and guided meditation. Look on YouTube for nature-based yoga videos, nature mindfulness videos, and background nature sounds.
Some helpful links:
Mindfulness
https://thejoywithin.org/mindfulness/5-exercises-to-practice-mindfulness-in-nature
https://www.naturewise.com/blogs/blog/3-outdoor-mindfulness-activities-to-do-in-nature
Guided Meditation
https://positivepsychology.com/guided-meditation-scripts/
https://www.the-guided-meditation-site.com/guided-meditation-scripts.html
https://www.greenchildmagazine.com/guided-relaxation-peaceful-butterfly/
https://www.greenchildmagazine.com/guided-meditation-printable-mindfulness-cabin/
