Outdoor Learning Conference 2026

Connection to nature is a term that is used to describe our relationship with the more-than-human world. It is often associated with an awareness of self and a sense of belonging or interconnectedness with the natural world. There is a rich body of literature suggesting that contact with nature is beneficial for health and wellbeing across the life course, as well as serving as a predictor amongst young people for future pro-environmental behaviours, that in turn have also been related with enhanced wellbeing. This collective workshop is envisioned as an outdoor interactive session, with opportunities for discussion and co-learning for facilitating opportunities that promote mindfulness in nature with young people. The session will be interspersed with discussion on theories and principles underlying the benefits of connection to nature, including examples of interdisciplinary programs I have helped to design and lead in early childhood, primary school, and high school settings.