Nature is for everyone!
We believe this so strongly that we have spent thousands of hours developing curricula, programs, lessons, and resources for anyone interested in learning more about birds, nature, and the wonders of southern Wisconsin. This section of our website provides all of those resources to you for free, because—yep, nature is for everyone.
Today's kids spend as little as thirty minutes outside each day, and almost seven hours in front of computer, smartphone, or television screens. Yet research shows that being outside is essential to kids' healthy development.
A key component of our mission at Southern Wisconsin Bird Alliance is to get more kids outside, where they can have FUN engaging with and learning about our natural world. Whether it is in their own neighborhood, at a nearby park, or at one of our two wildlife sanctuaries, we take kids outside where they can explore, investigate, and discover new things about themselves and the world they inhabit.
Learn more about our nature-based education programming in these settings:
Hands-on learning is a powerful tool! Photo by Arlene Koziol
Why Nature-based Education?
It WORKS: Studies document increased school performance, better student attitudes, and improved behavior among students who participate in outdoor education. Nature-based education is relevant, hands-on, and experiential.
It's HEALTHY: Students increase their physical activity level, and being outside enhances mental and social health. Studies show that access to nature can decrease symptoms of ADHD.
It's FUN: Learning about nature is a change of pace from typical classroom learning. Research indicated increased student enthusiasm for learning outdoors–and we see it all the time during our school and community center programs!
It CONNECTS: Kids who feel connected to the natural world feel more connected to their peers, families, and communities. Through connection to place, students develop stronger civic engagement skills. Outdoor and nature-based education is helping to build the next generation of environmental stewards.
*Research cited from the University of Wisconsin-Steven's Point's outdoor education research summary
Banner photo: A budding naturalist looks for activity on Goose Pond. Photo by Carolyn Byers
