Bringing the Outside In: Biophilic Design in Early Years spaces
When we think about children connecting with nature, we often picture muddy puddles, woodland walks, and time spent outdoors. But what happens when there’s a weather warning, families live in built-up urban areas, or access to green spaces is limited?
Increasingly, early years educators are asking a different question: how can we bring nature indoors?
At KatieB Kids in Dartford, we have embraced the concept of biophilic design- the idea of incorporating natural elements into indoor environments. While the term may sound unfamiliar, the principle is simple. Children thrive when they feel connected to the natural world, and that connection doesn't have to stop at the nursery door.
Walk through our nursery and you'll find natural materials woven throughout the environment. Children explore nature tables filled with pinecones, shells and seasonal treasures. Trailing plants soften learning spaces, natural fabrics create cosy corners, and a life-sized blossom tree (crafted using branches salvaged from storm-damaged trees) provides a focal point for curiosity and imagination.
For young children, these features are far more than decoration. Natural textures, colours and materials invite exploration through the senses, encouraging children to touch, observe, question and discover. Research increasingly suggests that environments rich in natural elements can support children's attention, wellbeing and emotional regulation.
This is particularly important in towns and cities, where many children may have limited access to gardens or green spaces. While outdoor play remains essential, creating nature-rich indoor environments helps ensure that children can experience some of the benefits of nature throughout the day, whatever the season.
We've seen the impact firsthand. Children often appear calmer and more settled in spaces designed around natural materials. Conversations become richer as children notice changing plants, fallen leaves or seasonal displays. Nature becomes part of their everyday learning, helping them develop curiosity, care for the environment and a sense of wonder about the world around them.
The good news is that families don't need a complete home makeover to embrace these ideas. Small changes can make a big difference. A simple nature table, a few child-accessible houseplants, seasonal collections from local walks, or even gentle birdsong playing in the background can help bring a sense of the outdoors into everyday life.
At its heart, bringing the outside in isn't about creating a perfect Pinterest-worthy space. It's about recognising something children have always known instinctively: nature makes us feel calm, curious and connected. By giving children opportunities to engage with the natural world, both indoors and outdoors, we help lay the foundations for wellbeing, learning and environmental stewardship that can last a lifetime.
