The school is the park.
The park is the school.
A growing body of research confirms what we’ve always known: time in nature transforms children’s minds, hearts, and bodies. From sharper cognitive function to greater emotional resilience, increased creativity to improved academic focus, nature-based learning fosters whole-child development in ways that indoor classrooms alone cannot match. Immersing children in green spaces enhances cognitive abilities, emotional wellbeing, academic performance, creativity, and physical health. That’s why we see the park and the school as one and the same.
Minds That Blossom Outdoors
Time in nature strengthens attention, memory, and problem-solving skills. Studies show that children with regular access to green spaces demonstrate better working memory and cognitive flexibility (Dadvand et al., 2015). Even a short walk in a park can improve focus and self-control, particularly for children with ADHD (Taylor & Kuo, 2009). Natural environments provide rich, varied stimuli that challenge young minds, encouraging exploration and adaptive thinking. This boost in executive function translates into improved concentration and problem-solving back in the classroom, sharpening the mental tools children need for academic success (Li & Sullivan, 2016).
TGS’ resident foxes remind us: learning is not confined to classrooms—it thrives in the heart of nature.
Grounded and Growing
Nature is a natural antidote to stress and anxiety. Research shows that children with regular exposure to green spaces report lower levels of cortisol, the stress hormone (van den Berg et al., 2010). Time spent outdoors reduces symptoms of depression and improves emotional regulation (McCurdy et al., 2010). Being in nature fosters a sense of freedom and peace, helping children build resilience and emotional stability. Studies link green play areas to increased self-esteem and positive social interactions, reinforcing the idea that time in nature supports emotional health and psychological balance (Wells & Evans, 2003).
Learning Inspired by Nature
Spending time in nature boosts academic engagement and achievement. Natural settings improve focus, reduce classroom fatigue, and enhance motivation to learn (Li & Sullivan, 2016). Lessons outdoors—whether mapping our forest or measuring our lake’s biodiversity—make learning more meaningful and engaging. Forest school models show that students who engage in nature-based learning demonstrate higher motivation and academic progress than peers in traditional classrooms (Gill, 2014). Green environments create a fertile ground for deeper, more effective learning.
Unleashing Young Innovators
Nature fuels imagination and creative thinking. Open-ended play in green spaces encourages children to invent games, solve problems, and engage in role-play (Chawla, 2015). Studies show that children’s play in natural environments is more complex and imaginative than play on structured playgrounds (Fjørtoft, 2001). Logs become pirate ships, sticks become magic wands—nature invites flexible, creative thinking. Exposure to natural textures, sounds, and patterns stimulates sensory integration and creative problem-solving. This boost in creative confidence carries over into other areas, fostering innovation and original thinking in the classroom and beyond (Wilson, 2012).
Visit us
The Garzón School
Ruta 104 — KM 13.5
20000 Manantiales
Maldonado, Uruguay
Run Free, Grow Strong
Outdoor play enhances strength, coordination, and overall health. Children who play in green spaces demonstrate better motor skills, balance, and agility than those in built environments (Fjørtoft, 2001). Climbing trees, jumping rocks, and balancing on uneven terrain develop physical strength and flexibility. Regular exposure to nature increases physical activity levels and reduces the risk of obesity and related health issues (WHO, 2022). Time outdoors also improves sleep quality and immune function, while natural light exposure helps prevent myopia and supports overall physical development (Straker et al., 2016).
Learning from Forest Schools
Forest schools show how nature-based education enhances holistic growth. Studies in the UK reveal that children in forest schools demonstrate greater focus, social confidence, and motor coordination (Knight, 2013). Nature-based learning promotes teamwork, resilience, and self-regulation. Academic performance also benefits: forest school students often outperform peers in problem-solving and creative thinking (Gill, 2014). This hands-on, student-led model fosters independent learning and adaptability, equipping children with life skills beyond the classroom. Nature is not just a setting—it’s a powerful teacher. By embedding nature into our educational model, we cultivate resilient, creative, and compassionate learners prepared to make a meaningful impact.