10 Outdoor Tips Using Nature to Keep Children Regulated
Simple, daily strategies to support calm, focus, and wellbeing
In today’s busy, overstimulating world, many children struggle to stay regulated throughout the school day. One of the most effective and accessible solutions is right outside the classroom.
Research highlighted by the BBC shows that spending time outdoors can improve wellbeing, reduce stress, and support children’s emotional health.
Even small amounts of time in nature can make a noticeable difference to mood and focus.
Here are 10 practical outdoor tips using nature that you can build into your daily routine.
🌳 1. Start the Day with Fresh Air
Begin with a short outdoor walk or simple activity.
👉 BBC: https://www.bbc.com/news/health-50108711
Why it works: Exposure to nature helps reduce stress and improves mood, setting children up for a calmer day.
🍃 2. Use Nature-Based Brain Breaks
Take learning outside for quick resets between lessons.
👉 BBC Bitesize: https://www.bbc.co.uk/bitesize/articles/z4v9trd
Why it works: Short outdoor breaks improve attention and reduce overwhelm.
🌬️ 3. Build Breathing into Outdoor Time
Use natural objects like dandelions or bubbles.
👉 BBC mindfulness support: https://www.bbc.co.uk/bitesize/articles/z2r7pg8
Why it works: Deep breathing calms the nervous system and supports emotional regulation.
🪵 4. Include Daily “Heavy Work”
Let children carry, build, or move natural materials.
👉 BBC on outdoor play benefits: https://www.bbc.com/news/education-44153754
Why it works: Physical effort helps children feel grounded and regulated.
🏃 5. Plan Regular Movement Breaks
Use outdoor space for running, jumping, or climbing.
👉 BBC Sport (activity inspiration):
https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/get-inspired/37356037
Why it works: Movement releases built-up energy and prevents dysregulation.
🍂 6. Use Sensory Nature Activities
Encourage children to explore textures, smells, and sounds.
👉 BBC Bitesize: https://www.bbc.co.uk/bitesize/articles/zf4kjhv
Why it works: Sensory input helps children reconnect and feel calm.
🧘 7. Create a Calm Outdoor Space
Have a quiet, predictable area outside.
👉 BBC wellbeing resources:
https://www.bbc.co.uk/teach/bring-the-noise/teacher-support-for-wellbeing/z4j9mfr
Why it works: A safe space helps children reset when overwhelmed.
🌧️ 8. Use the Weather as a Tool
Encourage children to notice rain, wind, or sunlight.
👉 BBC Future (nature & happiness):
https://www.bbc.com/future/article/20200521-how-nature-can-make-you-happier
Why it works: Natural environments reduce anxiety and support emotional balance.
🪨 9. Offer Simple Focus Activities
Use nature for calming, repetitive tasks.
👉 BBC Bitesize mindfulness:
https://www.bbc.co.uk/bitesize/articles/zf4kjhv
Why it works: Gentle focus activities help regulate attention without pressure.
🌈 10. End the Day with Outdoor Reflection
Finish with a calm moment outside.
👉 BBC Tiny Happy People:
https://www.bbc.co.uk/tiny-happy-people
Why it works: Reflection helps children process their day and leave feeling settled.
🌟 Why Nature Supports Regulation
Spending time outdoors has powerful benefits for children:
Reduces stress and anxiety
Improves mood and focus
Supports social and emotional development
Builds resilience and independence
Studies show that regular access to green space can improve behaviour, attention, and overall wellbeing in children.
💡 Final Thoughts
Supporting regulation isn’t about adding more interventions—it’s about creating the right environment. Nature provides that environment naturally.
By embedding these simple outdoor strategies into your day, you can help children feel calmer, more focused, and ready to learn.
