The Nature of the Outdoors: Stronger Youth Development Through Exploration

"Time in nature can be a powerful antidote to the negative impacts of trauma and stress in children’s lives."
— Casey Family Programs

The growing mental health crisis among young people has far-reaching consequences, from increasing suicide rates to delayed education and career opportunities. However, key social and emotional capacities have emerged as critical protective factors, equipping young people with the tools to navigate these challenges, build resilience, and achieve personal success. While all youth programs can foster these types of capacities, this groundbreaking study highlights how outdoor programs uniquely amplify youth development and promote thriving.A recent study by Hello Insight and supported by the Annie E. Casey Foundation and the YMCA analyzed data from over 10,000 young people across various outdoor and non-outdoor programs using Hello Insight. Outdoor programs included in the study spanned wilderness adventures, urban gardening, and day camps. This study shows that outdoor programs are more than just recreational—they are vital to youth development. By intentionally incorporating nature and outdoor exploration and reflection, young people cultivate thriving capacities that empower success academically, socially, and personally.

Key Findings at a Glance

Outdoor Programs Promote Capacities that Lead to Long-Term Thriving

• More young people in outdoor programs demonstrate growth than peers in non-outdoor programs.
• The presence of outdoor exploration and reflection further amplifies growth, with nearly 30% more young people developing thriving capacities when engaged in these types of experiences.

Latine Young People Experience Exceptional Benefits

• More Latine participants in outdoor programs grew than peers in non-outdoor settings, specifically in the areas of Contribution, Self-Management, and Social Skills.

Boys Thrive in Outdoor Settings

• More boys in outdoor programs exhibit gains in Self-Management, Social Skills, and Academic Self-Efficacy than boys in non-outdoor programs.

Girls and Peer Bonding

• More girls in outdoor programs show growth in social skills compared to girls in non-outdoor programs. This may be due to strong peer bonding experiences

Implications for Action:

For Program Leaders: Consider integrating outdoor components into existing programs to enhance thriving capacities.

For Funders: Invest in outdoor initiatives, particularly those serving Latine youth and boys, to promote equity and inclusion.

For Policymakers: Support policies that increase access to outdoor education and experiences for all youth.

This study redefines the role of the outdoors in Positive Youth Development, offering a blueprint for fostering resilience, connection, and purpose in the next generation