Adulthood doesn’t happen at 18—it happens through experience. There’s no switch that flips when a young person turns 18, no secret key handed over at graduation. And yet, society often treats adulthood as if it arrives in a single moment—a milestone marked by age or academic achievement.
In our efforts to keep young people safe, are we robbing them of the experiences they need to grow? It’s a question more parents and educators are beginning to ask as we reflect on what children truly need to thrive in an uncertain world. For decades, we’ve been refining ways to keep young people safe—physically, emotionally, and socially. But somewhere along the way, our focus on safety may have gone too far.
With busy schedules, an abundance of technology, and a variety of distractions, how can young people find the time to reconnect with themselves and what really matters? Here are four reasons how time in the outdoors can have a positive impact.
As educators and parents, our role in young people’s lives is incredibly powerful and the way we enrich their learning directly impacts the person they become. Let’s go over the many ways that learning in the outdoors helps with building three core connections in a world full of ongoing distractions.
AdventureWorks and its team would like to acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we work and live and recognise their continuing connection to land, water and community. We pay respect to Elders past, present and emerging. AdventureWorks further pledge our commitment to increasing understanding and connection to Aboriginal Australians through the work we do with young Australians and as individuals.
