Bringing Nature into the Early Years Classroom: Simple Tips for Big Impact

Why Nature Belongs in the Classroom — Even When You’re Indoors

In today’s fast-paced, tech-filled world, children need nature more than ever. But what if your classroom doesn’t have immediate access to a forest or green space?

Good news: bringing nature into your early years classroom doesn’t require a hiking trail — just a little creativity, intention, and curiosity.

At Busy Minds Education®, we’re passionate about helping educators create calming, enriching environments that nurture a love of the natural world. Whether you're in a bustling city centre or a suburban school, here are a few ways to make nature part of your everyday classroom routine.

🌿 5 Easy Ways to Bring Nature into Your Early Years Classroom

1. Create a Nature Table or Discovery Shelf

Designate a small space where children can explore seasonal items: pinecones, leaves, shells, feathers, or rocks. Invite students to add their own nature finds and rotate items regularly.

2. Add Natural Materials to Play Areas

Swap out some plastic toys for wooden blocks, tree cookies, stones, and woven baskets. These sensory-rich materials help foster creativity, problem-solving, and open-ended play.

3. Bring in Houseplants or Start a Mini Garden

Even one potted plant can bring life to your space! Choose kid-friendly, low-maintenance plants like spider plants or pothos. For a bigger impact, try growing herbs or sprouts in a sunny window.

4. Use Nature-Inspired Art & Loose Parts

Set up an art station with leaves, twigs, seeds, and flowers. Children can explore patterns, make prints, or create “land art” right on the table. Bonus: it supports fine motor skills and storytelling!

5. Make Outdoor Learning a Regular Routine

If you have access to a yard, courtyard, or even a nearby park, build outdoor time into your week — not just for recess, but for storytime, circle, or science exploration.

🌲 Meet Nature Explorers: Our Outdoor Education Program

Looking to take things a step further? That’s where our Nature Explorers program comes in! Designed for early years classrooms and childcares, Nature Explorers is a mobile enrichment program from Busy Minds Education® that brings outdoor learning, movement, and mindfulness into the school day.

Through hands-on activities like scavenger hunts, forest games, sensory walks, nature crafts, and storytelling, children develop:

✅ A sense of wonder for the natural world

✅ Confidence in outdoor environments

✅ Curiosity, teamwork, and resilience

✅ Gross motor and sensory integration skills

The goal? To foster environmental awareness, mindfulness, and physical literacy — all through play-based outdoor learning.

We bring the supplies, the energy, and the lesson plan. You bring the kids!

🌼 The Benefits of Nature in Education

Integrating nature into education offers numerous benefits. It enhances children's creativity and cognitive skills. When children engage with the natural world, they develop a deeper understanding of their environment. This connection fosters a sense of responsibility and stewardship towards nature.

Moreover, outdoor experiences can significantly improve children's mental health. Nature has a calming effect, reducing stress and anxiety. When children spend time outdoors, they often exhibit improved mood and focus.

🌻 Building a Nature-Inspired Curriculum

Creating a nature-inspired curriculum can be a rewarding experience. Start by incorporating themes related to the seasons. Discuss changes in weather, plant growth, and animal behavior. Use storytelling to connect children with nature. Books about animals, plants, and ecosystems can spark curiosity and imagination.

Field trips to local parks or nature reserves can also enhance learning. These experiences allow children to observe wildlife and ecosystems firsthand. Encourage them to ask questions and explore their surroundings.

🌱 Encouraging Curiosity Through Exploration

Curiosity is a natural trait in children. By providing opportunities for exploration, we can nurture this curiosity. Set up nature-based challenges, such as scavenger hunts or observation tasks. Encourage children to ask questions and seek answers together.

Incorporating technology can also enhance exploration. Use apps that identify plants or animals, allowing children to learn more about their findings. This blend of nature and technology can create a dynamic learning environment.

Let’s Nurture Nature-Loving Learners Together

By integrating nature into your early years classroom, you're not just enhancing curriculum — you're giving children the calm, connection, and curiosity they need to thrive.

Interested in booking a Nature Explorers visit for your centre or school?

📩 Contact Busy Minds Education® today to learn more about our seasonal packages and custom workshops.

Because nature isn’t just “out there” — it belongs right here, with our children, every day.

Let’s work together to create enriching experiences that inspire a lifelong love for nature!