How does Nature Play a Role in Supporting Children with ADHD?

 Research states that natural environments offer an additional tool for supporting children who have ADHD.

As parents of children with ADHD, you're constantly seeking the best ways to support your child's unique needs. At REACH ADHD Coaching and Consultancy, we understand the challenges ADHD brings, and we're committed to staying at the forefront of research to offer innovative and practical strategies. We have always encouraged parents to explore the benefits of exposing their children to nature daily and collecting their own data to see if this helps their children manage their ADHD.

Recent studies, like one systematic review by Maddison Hood and Oliver Baumann, (Hood & Baumann, 2024), highlight the positive effects that spending time in nature can have on children with ADHD. While medication and behavioural therapies are often central to treatment, research suggests that exposure to natural environments may offer an additional tool in managing symptoms such as inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity.

What the Research Shows

The review looked at several studies examining the relationship between nature exposure and ADHD in school-aged children. While the research methods varied, the results were consistent: children who spent more time in natural settings tended to have fewer ADHD symptoms and better focus.

For instance, children living in areas with more green space, such as parks or forests, showed improved attention and concentration. One study even found that children who played in open grassy areas or near large trees exhibited less severe ADHD symptoms compared to those in built environments. These natural spaces seemed to offer a “restorative” experience, helping children feel calmer and more centred.

This aligns with what many parents and therapists have intuitively known—nature seems to have a grounding, soothing effect on children who struggle with focus and impulse control. Imagine the benefits of incorporating nature into your child's daily routine, whether by taking walks in the park or even placing plants and water features in their study areas at home.

How Can You Integrate Nature into Your Child’s Routine?

It may seem challenging to find time for nature amidst busy school schedules, but even small doses of outdoor time can make a difference. Here are some simple, accessible ways to bring nature into your child’s day:

• Outdoor Play: A short walk or a few minutes in a local park or garden can be incredibly beneficial for focus and emotional regulation.

Outdoor Play.

• Nature-inspired Spaces at Home: If access to outdoor spaces is limited, add plants or small water features indoors. Natural elements in the home can still provide a sense of calm and connection to nature.

Nature-Inspired Spaces at Home.

• Nature in Therapy Sessions: At REACH ADHD Coaching, we recommend using natural settings or incorporating nature into coaching activities when possible.

Nature in Theraphy Session.

Why Nature Works

The benefits of nature for ADHD might be linked to how natural environments help regulate stress and lower cortisol levels. This is crucial because stress can exacerbate ADHD symptoms. The gentle, quiet stimulation nature provides might also allow the brain to “reset,” improving focus and attention. Studies have shown that visual exposure to nature, like sitting by a window with a view of trees or water, can lead to better concentration and reduced impulsivity.

By embracing nature as part of your ADHD management toolkit, you may find that it offers a calming effect and an enriching opportunity for your child to connect with their environment in a meaningful way.

Embracing Nature as a Complementary Tool

While further research is still needed to understand how nature impacts ADHD fully, the current evidence is compelling. At REACH ADHD Coaching, we believe in a holistic, well-rounded approach to managing ADHD, and nature is an exciting avenue to explore alongside traditional therapies and medication.

By embracing nature as part of your ADHD management toolkit, you may find that it offers a calming effect and an enriching opportunity for your child to connect with their environment in a meaningful way.

At REACH ADHD Coaching and Consultancy, we're dedicated to providing ongoing support and exploring new ways to assist children with ADHD. If you want to learn more about incorporating nature into your child’s ADHD management, we’re here to help. Together, we can create a supportive, nurturing environment for your child to thrive.

References: Hood, M., & Baumann, O. (2024). Could Nature Contribute to the Management of ADHD in Children? A Systematic Review. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 21(6), 736. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph21060736