This chapter explores the concept of Sensory Risk Taking and the significance of sensory safety in fostering connections with nature. Through vivid descriptions of natural environments and experiential anecdotes, the authors illustrate how children’s aversion to sensory experiences in nature poses challenges to their holistic development and ecological consciousness. Drawing from their experiences with Educated by Nature programs, the authors examine the phenomenon of Sensory Risk Taking, wherein individuals, especially children, engage their senses in novel experiences. They discuss the importance of sensory integration in child development and highlight how exposure to diverse sensory stimuli in natural settings promotes adaptability and problem-solving skills. The chapter delves into specific sensory challenges encountered in nature, such as tactile aversions and thermoception, and discusses their implications for children’s well-being and environmental engagement. Furthermore, it explores strategies for creating sensory-safe environments in nature-based programs, emphasising the role of educators and facilitators (nature connection mentors) in fostering resilience and empowering children to navigate sensory experiences with confidence. Through narratives of imaginative play and risk-taking activities, the authors illustrate how sensory safety lays the foundation for meaningful connections with nature and further risk-taking in play. They underscore the transformative potential of play in building resilience, problem-solving skills, and ecological consciousness among children. Ultimately, the chapter advocates for an integrated approach to nature education that prioritises sensory engagement, risk-taking, and sensory safety to nurture children’s relationship with the natural world.

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Sensory Risk Taking and the Importance of Sensory Safety for Connecting Within Nature

  • Trudi Bennett,
  • Daniel Burton,
  • Tui Dougiamas

摘要

This chapter explores the concept of Sensory Risk Taking and the significance of sensory safety in fostering connections with nature. Through vivid descriptions of natural environments and experiential anecdotes, the authors illustrate how children’s aversion to sensory experiences in nature poses challenges to their holistic development and ecological consciousness. Drawing from their experiences with Educated by Nature programs, the authors examine the phenomenon of Sensory Risk Taking, wherein individuals, especially children, engage their senses in novel experiences. They discuss the importance of sensory integration in child development and highlight how exposure to diverse sensory stimuli in natural settings promotes adaptability and problem-solving skills. The chapter delves into specific sensory challenges encountered in nature, such as tactile aversions and thermoception, and discusses their implications for children’s well-being and environmental engagement. Furthermore, it explores strategies for creating sensory-safe environments in nature-based programs, emphasising the role of educators and facilitators (nature connection mentors) in fostering resilience and empowering children to navigate sensory experiences with confidence. Through narratives of imaginative play and risk-taking activities, the authors illustrate how sensory safety lays the foundation for meaningful connections with nature and further risk-taking in play. They underscore the transformative potential of play in building resilience, problem-solving skills, and ecological consciousness among children. Ultimately, the chapter advocates for an integrated approach to nature education that prioritises sensory engagement, risk-taking, and sensory safety to nurture children’s relationship with the natural world.