Reconnecting our kids with nature

We’ve heard the phrase ‘unprecedented times’ more times than we can count in the last 1.5 years. We are all itching to break free of any type of lockdowns and reconnect with something other than a computer, Zoom call, or TV screen.

Our children may feel this disconnect the most of all. However, this has been in motion for almost a generation. It’s been long suspected that a “nature-deficit” can be attributed to city landscapes, our growing digital world and increased time indoors. But please don’t feel stressed, it’s the 21st century after all – and as parents, there are only so many hours in the day we can fill whilst still juggling what the rest of the world needs from us.

The good news is that there is always time to make a difference. A recent study published in August 2021, delved into the environmental attitudes of primary school and high school students in Sydney areas. The study found that most children in primary school adore and empathise with nature well. It stresses that it’s important to nourish this relationship with nature and the environment during their fundamental teenage years. As our kids navigate the challenges of puberty, new schools and new friends – we may be able to help their nervous system, combat their stressors, keep that flame for environmental justice burning, as well as foster our own relationships with them through nature.

Experiencing nature or nature immersion regularly has been shown to improve so many different wellbeing aspects for our kids. Research shows it can: 

• increase self esteem and resilience against stress and adversity, 
• improve concentration, 
• learning, 
• creativity, 
• cognitive development, 
• cooperation, 
• flexibility and self-awareness, 
• as well as helping to prevent childhood obesity.

Whether you look into nature immersion experiences, or just aim to enjoy the outdoors for an hour or two – unscripted, it’s absolutely something for the whole family. 

On the Sunshine Coast, we are so lucky to enjoy the serenity of so many different landscapes.

Here’s our top picks for family-friendly nature walks:

Maroochydore Wetlands Sanctuary

In the Maroochy Wetlands Sanctuary at Bli Bli, you can explore wet and dry eucalypt forests, rainforest, melaleuca forest, casuarina woodland, salt marsh and mangroves. You can watch over 200 different types of birds, as well as crabs, butterflies and other animals and organisms that make the wetlands their home. Be prepared against mosquitoes!

Buderim Rainforest Walk

A hidden gem in the northern side of Buderim, this walk is definitely one the kids will enjoy. With two entry points, we recommend starting at Lindsay Road, via Harry’s Lane – to experience the depths of this oasis and the excitement as the boardwalk turns to gravel, and then to a rocky adventure alongside streams with the golden moment of a refreshing waterfall swim at the end!

Kondalilla Falls

Something for the older kids as the full walk is a more advanced 4.7km trail. Experience stunning scenery, forests and waterfalls as well as a beautiful picnic area.

Noosa National Park

A Sunshine Coast favourite; you can take as little or as long as you like – enjoy the sunshine, salt air and fairy pools at low tide. Depending on the family and fitness level, the walk can be anywhere from 1.2km to 10km+. Grant yourself moments of presence as you take stops along the way to breathe deeply, rehydrate, or spot dolphins along the coastline.

If the kids are feeling hesitant, let them guide where they are wanting to go, and encourage them to leave their tech at home. There are so many opportunities for quiet inner reflection or opening up with each other during your family time.