HNR 230 GROWING UP OUTSIDE: CHILDREN AND THE NATURAL WORLD
This course will explore how the psychosocial, cognitive, and motor development of children is influenced by varying interactions with the natural world. Students will critically analyze ecological and sociocultural theoretical frameworks to facilitate their understanding of how children’s interactions in complex environmental ecologies can influence development and learning. We will use evidence from recent theory and research to evaluate claims about why spending time in nature matters for child development across multiple domains and holistic well-being. In addition, we will consider how diversity and barriers to access (e.g., disability or economic resources) can impact childhood experiences. Specific topics include: forest schools; gender and play in outdoor environments; risky play; children’s environmental stewardship; children’s acceptance and inclusion of differences. SOCIETY OR NON-LAB SCIENCE