Learning to thrive

What is the role of play, agency, compassion and nature in children’s wellbeing and development?
An illustration of a younger and an older bee looking at stylised, colourful leaves and flowers

‘Learning to thrive’ provides a space to explore how caregivers and educators might support young people to thrive. This is also a space for researchers and science journalists to share the latest evidence on the role of nature, play, creativity and agency in young people’s wellbeing.

The animation was created to help start conversations about the different ways in which we can help young people to thrive in a challenging world.

What does ‘learning to thrive’ mean?

There is growing evidence that young people are concerned about the state of the natural world around them. They are exposed to stories about the changing climate, biodiversity loss, habitat destruction and about the impacts this has both now, and on their futures. The feelings of anxiety and uncertainty this can cause, in turn may affect the wellbeing of young people and their wider learning and development.

There is also growing evidence that providing young people with opportunities to connect with nature could make a difference. Spending time in nature can reduce our stress and help us regulate our emotions. Could it also improve general wellbeing? Paying greater attention to the world around us has been linked to higher levels of concern for the environment and for those with which we share it. Could this increase the likelihood of finding positive responses to some of the challenges posed by living in a climate of uncertainty?

If you’re interested in supporting children to thrive in a challenging and changing climate, there is a range of materials to help reflect on the topics, engage with young people and start the conversations.

Use the animation to explore connections with children and young people

Explore more on BOLD

What is the role of play, agency, compassion and nature in children’s wellbeing? Explore articles, interviews, videos and podcasts about helping children thrive in a changing climate.

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Kathy Hirsh-Pasek and Roberta Michnick Golinkoff / 11 June 2024
A family play joyfully with a skipping rope.

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