Project Nature

At BestStart Washington, we know that the earlier children explore nature, the greater the positive effects. Project Nature, launched in 2018, is an initiative we are creating with community partners to empower families and caregivers to explore nature with children. Project Nature will enable physicians and community organizations to increase family access to nature through well-child visits, e-resources and social media. Project Nature targets families with the greatest need.

Time in Nature Boosts Wellbeing

Time spent outdoors increases children’s physical activity, health, school achievement and overall wellbeing.Young children who are allowed and encouraged to explore the natural world—even with brief, regular exposure—have better knowledge of science and greater empathy for natural places.

Not all children and families spend time in nature.Today babies and young children are often kept indoors, shuttled by car or bus from home, to childcare and back to home and to bed each night. With the prevalence of smart phones and other technology, many children are spending more time in front of screens and less time outdoors and physically active.There are many barriers to outdoor play and exploration and disadvantaged families often have more barriers than others.

As we roll out our program to break down these barriers and connect more children to nature, we are seeking partners in our Washington communities who can help keep our online resources full of things to see and do outdoors in Washington. We want Project Nature to be collaborative and part of a shared vision. If you are interested in becoming a partner and sharing your resources and activities related to time spent outdoors and in nature, please contact Edna Maddalena at edna@beststartwa.org