Integrating Nature Into the Elementary Classroom

As educators, we are continuously searching for ways to create environments that enhance learning. One way is through biophilic design, rooted in the idea that humans have an inherent connection to nature. This approach, popularized by Richard Louv, emphasizes integrating natural elements into spaces to boost well-being and cognitive function. While the term biophilic might seem complex, think of it simply as “nature-inspired” design, an approach that any teacher can adopt to transform their classroom into a more engaging and healthy environment. You can also integrate nature into your lessons across the curriculum. Here is how I've transformed my elementary school classroom.

nature-inspired classroom design

Nature-inspired design can be a powerful tool to create spaces where students feel more at ease, engaged, and ready to learn. For instance, plants and greenery have a calming effect that reduces stress and promotes relaxation. A nature-inspired classroom doesn’t just look appealing; it fosters a positive learning atmosphere where students can thrive.

You might be thinking, “I can’t change the building materials in my classroom,” and you’re right. However, even if you can’t physically alter your classroom structure, there are still many small changes you can make to bring nature into your space.  

Incorporate greenery: Start with something as simple as adding a few potted plants or creating a small indoor garden. Plants not only beautify the space but also can help improve indoor air quality by increasing oxygen levels and, in some cases, reducing pollutants. While some research has shown that plants can effectively remove airborne pollutants in controlled environments, their impact in real-world settings may be more modest. Combining plants with other air-purification strategies, like proper ventilation or air purifiers, can maximize their benefits. You can even involve students in caring for the plants, turning it into a hands-on lesson in responsibility and environmental awareness.

Use natural materials: Whenever possible, choose furniture, school materials, and decor made from natural materials like wood, clay, or stone. Even small accents, like a wooden pencil holder or a stone paperweight, can contribute to the overall feel of the space. Avoid plastic and synthetic materials, which can feel cold and uninviting.

Choose calming colors: Colors can significantly impact mood and focus. Earth tones and green hues are known to reduce stress and promote a sense of calm. You don’t need to repaint the entire classroom. Consider using these colors in key areas or for specific objects, like bulletin boards, display frames, or seating arrangements.

Maximize natural light: Whenever possible, let natural light flood into your classroom. If your classroom has windows, make sure they are unobstructed by heavy curtains or furniture. If natural light is limited, consider using light bulbs that mimic natural daylight, such as SOListic bulbs, which provide a sunlike, full-spectrum light that closely replicates natural daylight without the harsh blue tones found in other LED light sources. Natural light or its imitation helps regulate students’ circadian rhythms, making them more alert and focused during lessons.

Incorporate textures and natural finishes: Bring in a variety of textures that mimic the diversity of natural environments. This could be as simple as using woven baskets for storage, placing a wool rug in a reading nook, or hanging corkboards. These textures make the space more tactile and engaging, offering a sensory experience that is often lacking in traditional classroom settings. Multisensory learning, engaging multiple senses simultaneously, can improve cognitive development, increase student engagement, and make learning more meaningful and long-lasting.

You don’t have to transform your entire classroom overnight. Start with one or two changes, like adding a couple of plants or incorporating more natural light, and build from there. Many natural materials can be found for free or at low cost. For example, gather stones, leaves, or branches from outside to use as classroom decor, or look for unique, affordable items like baskets, vases, or wooden crates at second-hand stores, flea markets, or antique markets. Reach out to parents, local businesses, and community organizations for donations of plants or natural materials. 

Bringing nature into elementary curriculum

In my classroom, I love incorporating nature into our daily lessons and activities. It’s not just about adding a few plants here and there; it’s about connecting what students are learning to the natural world around them.

Science: We’ve created our own little ecosystems right inside the classroom. We set up terrariums and aquariums where students can observe how different organisms interact. They explore concepts like food chains, habitats, and biodiversity firsthand. It’s a fantastic way to bring lessons about ecosystems to life. We also grow plants from seeds, which has become a class favorite. Students document every stage of the plant’s life cycle, from the moment the seed germinates to when it flowers and produces seeds. It’s such a rewarding process, and the students are really engaged.

Art: I encourage students to use natural materials like leaves, twigs, and stones in their projects. We also experiment with creating prints using leaves and flowers, pressing them into paint and onto paper. It’s a wonderful way for students to explore textures, patterns, and symmetry in nature. They not only learn about art techniques but also gain a deeper appreciation for the shapes and structures of various plants.

English language arts: I take my students on nature walks, where they observe and take notes on their surroundings. Clipboards, pencils, paper, and cameras are essential tools. Later, they use their drawings, pictures, and notes as inspiration for creative writing projects—whether it’s a poem, story, or essay. These activities help them sharpen their descriptive skills and build a deeper connection to nature.

Math: We use objects like pine cones, flowers, rocks, and leaves for counting, creating patterns, measuring, and exploring symmetry lines. For instance, we use leaves to identify symmetry and wood sticks to represent tens when working with place value. We’ve also tracked the growth of plants over time, measured their height, and graphed the data. These activities help students improve their math skills while also gaining a tangible understanding of concepts like growth rates, symmetry, and place value.

When we weave nature into our curriculum, learning becomes more relatable and relevant, helping students see the connections between their classroom environment and the natural world around them. Creating a nature-inspired classroom is within every teacher’s reach. By making small, thoughtful changes, you can transform your classroom into a space that nurtures students’ well-being, enhances their focus, and fosters a deeper connection to the natural world.