The Toolkit ‘‘’Youth at Risk Going Back to Nature’’ was developed as a result of the learning exchange event for 12 professionals in the field of outdoor activities as part of the YGBN Project.
The Toolkit offers multiple benefits of outdoors activities for youth at risk. They include improved physical health, enhanced mental well- being, development of social skills, and increased self-esteem. Moreover, outdoor activities foster resilience, problem-solving abilities, and a sense of belonging, which are critical for the positive development of Youth at Risk.
- Physical Health and Well-being
Participation in outdoor activities significantly enhances the physical health of young people. Regular physical exercise is associated with improved cardiovascular health, better weight management, and increased overall fitness. For youth at risk, who may have limited access to regular and structured physical activity, outdoor programs provide essential opportunities to engage in health-promoting behaviors (Biddle & Asare, 2011).
- Mental Health and Emotional Resilience
Outdoor activities have been shown to foster mental well-being and emotional resilience. Exposure to natural environments and physical activity can reduce symptoms of depression, anxiety, and stress, while enhancing mood and self-esteem. For youth at risk, who often grapple with high levels of psychological distress, these benefits are particularly crucial. Nature- based activities can offer therapeutic experiences that promote emotional healing and resilience.
- Social Skills and Community Engagement
Outdoor activities inherently involve social interaction, teamwork, and collaboration. These settings provide youth at risk with valuable opportunities to develop social skills, such as communication, cooperation, and conflict resolution). By engaging in group activities, young people can build positive relationships with peers and mentors, fostering a sense of belonging and community connectedness. This social integration is critical for mitigating the isolation and marginalization that many at-risk youth experience.
Find the entire Toolkit ‘’Youth at Risk Going Back to Nature’’ available here.
Check out the documentary where you can find all the activities.
Youth Outdoor Portal 