Nature and mental health Lesson Plan

In a thought-provoking lesson designed for Key Stage 1, students explore the often-overlooked benefits of nature on mental health. The lesson begins with a feedback session where the whole class reviews the results from the previous week's topic. Then, in a brief two to three-minute activity, pupils pair up to discuss and rank five activities they engaged in during lockdown, specifically looking at how much outdoor activities featured in their lives. This serves as a segue into understanding the importance of the topic at hand.

As the lesson progresses, the whole class delves into the topic by considering why the intersection of mental health and nature is significant. An interactive 'Would you rather?' activity encourages pupils to physically move to show their preference for indoor or outdoor activities, fostering engagement and making the learning experience dynamic. The core of the lesson is an eight to twelve-minute segment where pupils participate in a true or false quiz, learning about the positive impact of nature on mental health. To consolidate their learning and promote advocacy, students individually create posters that encourage people to enjoy natural spaces in their local area. The lesson concludes with a whole-class vote, where pupils review arguments for and against the topic before casting their votes. Throughout the lesson, keywords such as 'Nature', 'Mental Health', and 'Benefits' are emphasised, and additional support materials are provided for SEND learners, ensuring inclusivity and comprehensive understanding.