I think the world needs more “back to nature,” and okay, especially in education. We have far too much inside and not enough outside. Studies show that people are healthier and happier with far less stress when they spend time outside in natural areas.

Why not have a school garden where students can play in the dirt with a purpose and learn the fine art of raising their own food? The ‘test’ could be that they have to design some kind of home garden and implement their plan whether they live in an apartment, a trailer, or a house.

Why not have a school forest with little benches and paths? Students could learn about forestry and the care of trees; they could learn about designing natural areas; they could learn about how you design foot traffic and where the best places for little resting areas would be.

Why not have a fountain or water feature in that forest? There could be a pond with goldfish or other fish that can survive a winter. Water soothes the spirit and students can learn about how water works and why it is so important.

Studies have shown that people who live close to parks or green spaces aren’t as hazard and live a much richer life.