ERIC Number: EJ1201725
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2019
Pages: 14
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-0300-4430
EISSN: N/A
Evaluating a Supported Nature Play Programme, Parents' Perspectives
Ward, Tanya; Goldingay, Sophie; Parson, Judi
Early Child Development and Care, v189 n2 p270-283 2019
Concern has been raised recently in relation to excessive use of digital technology and the detrimental effect this has on familial relationships, well-being and development, andon people's connection with nature. This article provides a timely response to this concern by presenting the findings of a qualitative evaluation of a supported nature play programme according to the parents' perceptions. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with six participants and analysed using experiential thematic analysis. Analysis provided three major themes: enhancing interpersonal relationships; connections to nature and fostering emotional wellness. According to these participants, relational, well-being and developmental benefits continued both within and beyond the programme context. It is argued that supported nature play programmes, which include a therapy dog, have the potential to enhance interpersonal, nature and animal connections while simultaneously providing families with opportunities to strengthen their development and well-being.
Descriptors: Parent Attitudes, Play, Outdoor Education, Well Being, Animals, Therapy, Information Technology, Family Relationship, Program Evaluation, Interpersonal Relationship, Wellness, Child Development, Educational Benefits, Metacognition, Foreign Countries, Program Descriptions, Educational Objectives
Routledge. Available from: Taylor & Francis, Ltd. 530 Walnut Street Suite 850, Philadelphia, PA 19106. Tel: 800-354-1420; Tel: 215-625-8900; Fax: 215-207-0050; Web site: http://www.tandf.co.uk/journals
Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Evaluative
Education Level: N/A
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Identifiers - Location: Australia
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A