Learning outcomes
Tamariki take part in a mindfulness activity and reflect on how tuning into nature can help us feel good.
Tamariki take part in a mindfulness activity and reflect on how tuning into nature can help us feel good.
Countless research reveals the positive effect nature has on our wellbeing – our tinana, hinengaro and wairua especially. This activity invites tamariki to think about and explore the benefits, in an easy and tangible way.
To set the scene, start with a class kōrero exploring how tamariki feel when they are in nature, asking:
Countless research reveals the positive effect nature has on our wellbeing - our tinana, hinengaro and wairua especially. A few benefits include:
What’s extra amazing is that we don’t even have to be in nature to experience the benefits. This study showed that having pot plants in a workplace or even just being able to see a beautiful image or view reduces stress. Pretty cool eh?
We’ve been working with the Department of Conservation who have given us access to some amazing bird-song. We've added to these some subtle design and movement, creating the below clips to help tamariki listen, focus and relax.
There are many ways you can use these recordings, here are a few options:
Ask tamariki to just be still and listen to the recording. You may choose to do this individually, over zoom or as a class.
Take this activity outside! Head outdoors as a group, so you can watch and listen to manu in their natural environment. Tamariki might like to note some of the birds they see, choosing one to draw or write a poem about.
You might also like to explore some manu waiata. We love Fatcat and Fishface and their Birdbrain album and Mr Roberelli's Where's the Piwakawaka.
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