Nature in a Modern World

July 3, 2024
College Early Childhood Middle Playgroup Primary Whole School

Witnessing how our growing menagerie of animals has enriched our community has been a joy. They have gifted our days with a new dimension of vibrancy and joy.

We have seen many examples of how the connection and experiences with the animals have promoted an understanding of vulnerability and empathy as children learn to interact with gentleness and kindness.

We have witnessed actions of nurturing and caregiving, from hand-feeding the chickens to designing and building a haven for the guinea pigs.

We see how being around animals evokes curiosity as the children observe and wonder about the animals’ behaviours.

It is increasingly recognised that direct contact with nature is essential to psychological wellbeing.

However, although we may be born with this inclination to affiliate with nature, it is equally recognised that this biological urge must be nurtured and developed.

Stephen R. Kellert, Author

Above all, though, we have seen how our animals provide uplifting and restorative emotional responses.

Offering a pathway to uncouple from distressing feelings of separation, the nervousness of entering a new environment; facing an academic challenge to providing a bridge for social connections and a sense of belonging.

From his book, Birthright: People and Nature in the Modern World, Kellert goes on to note that “Our inborn affinity for the natural world is, in effect, a birthright that must be cultivated and earned… it is not a hard-wired outcome, but one that requires conscious and sustained engagement”

Equally, we are cautious to protect the welfare of the animals, ensuring they are not overhandled and have safe and suitable housing.

These all form part of the valuable learning experiences these well-loved creatures provide for the children of Bold Park Community School.

With Gratitude,
Nicole Hunter
Pedagogista

Nicole with School bunnies, Puffer and Goji (berry)

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