This project focussed on addressing a growing concern that the lasting impacts of COVID isolation has aggravated children’s sense of biophobia – a fear of nature and the outdoors. A growing body of scientific literature shows how spending time outside has a positive effect on children’s well-being, however, an increasing range of research argues that biophobia is a growing phenomenon that seems to be accumulative with urban development. That, biophobia is being reinforced and proliferated through society, which can have harmful consequences for children’s physical and mental health. A child’s progressively infrequent experiences with nature can lead to a feeling of disconnection.
Research has shown that children developing a reluctance to engage in The Outdoors are at greater risks of experiencing Increases in anxiety and depression at younger ages
- Difficulties with emotional regulation and self-control
- Lack of socialization, sharing, and problem-solving skills
- Increased risk of obesity and Type II diabetes
- Vitamin D deficiency
- Higher stress levels
- Reduced creativity
- Lowered self-esteem
To reverse the cycle, research insists, education is essential. Children are especially impressionable and early exposure to nature in a safe environment, such as with a schoolteacher or parent, could change their attitude.
Creative solutions are necessary because as cities grow bigger and denser, accessing green space is becoming difficult for many, especially those in low-income communities (FSM) and Ethnicity minority families.
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