The Problem with Pushing Academics Too Soon
As parents, we all want to set our kids up for success. We want them to do well in school, make friends easily, and grow into happy, capable adults.
But with so much pressure on academics these days, it’s easy to let those inner worries take over and wonder: Am I doing enough?
The simple reality is this—if you’re prioritising nature play you’re already giving your child exactly what they need to thrive in life.
Dr. Peter Gray, a well-known expert in child development, explains the risks of early academic pressure in his article “Early Academic Training Produces Long-Term Harm”. Studies show that while kids in academic-heavy preschools might start ahead, those benefits disappear by third grade. Worse, they often struggle more with anxiety, motivation, and problem-solving than kids who had more time to just play.
Research also finds that early academic focus can actually hurt creativity, independence, and emotional resilience—all things kids need to succeed later in life.
Nature Play Builds the Skills Kids Actually Need
On the flip side, research like the study “Young Children’s Contributions to Sustainability: The Influence of Nature Play on Curiosity, Executive Function Skills, Creative Thinking, and Resilience” proves that outdoor play isn’t just fun—it’s an academic and life skills booster.
Here’s exactly how nature play helps:
Problem-solving & decision-making – Playing outside gives kids real challenges to figure out on their own.
Creativity & curiosity – Unstructured nature play sparks imagination and a love of learning.
Confidence & resilience – Kids learn to take risks, try new things, and bounce back when things don’t go to plan.
Social & emotional smarts – Playing in nature encourages teamwork, communication, and empathy.
You’re Already on the Right Track
If your family makes time for outdoor play—whether it’s through Wildlings Forest School, weekend bushwalks, or backyard adventures—you’re giving your child exactly what they need. You’re helping them build strong foundations for learning, confidence, and emotional well-being, without the stress of early academics.
Keep the Adventures Going!
The best part? Helping your child thrive is as simple as getting them outside. Whether it’s after-school play with the neighbours, weekend family walks, or coming to a Wildlings Program, every moment in nature is an investment in their future.
So, next time you worry about worksheets, assignments and naplan scores, take a deep breath and remember: nature is the best classroom, and play is the best teacher.
You’re doing a great job 🌿