Learning that engages the head, heart, and hands.
Children learn best when they move, explore, and connect with the world around them. At Elemental Roots, nature isn’t just a backdrop — it’s the teacher itself.
The Power of Learning Outdoors
When children are in nature, they come alive. Time outdoors awakens curiosity, focus, and joy — helping children see themselves as part of a bigger world.
Students who learn through movement and exploration build stronger attention, creativity, and problem-solving skills. In nature, they’re not confined — they’re inspired.
Learning outdoors reconnects children to wonder, invites healthy risk-taking, and helps them grow in confidence, empathy, and resilience.
Backed by Research
Studies confirm what educators and parents have always known: time in nature transforms learning and well-being.
Wells & Evans (2003): Children with access to green spaces demonstrate better focus and stress recovery.
Dadvand et al. (2018): Natural environments support brain development and academic performance.
McCurdy et al. (2010): Outdoor play reduces symptoms of anxiety and depression.
Maas et al. (2009): Nature promotes motivation, self-discipline, and resilience.
At Elemental Roots, we translate this research into practice — designing environments that nurture both academic success and emotional balance.
Education that builds whole humans.
Nature-based education isn’t just about academics — it’s about growing capable, compassionate, and grounded people.
When children learn through real experiences, they develop confidence, patience, and a deep respect for themselves, others, and the environment. They learn to work together, think creatively, and approach challenges with curiosity and care.
Teachers in outdoor programs consistently see higher engagement, fewer behavioral struggles, and stronger social-emotional growth — outcomes that last far beyond the classroom.
The Elemental Roots Approach
Science meets soul.
Our model blends Wisconsin academic standards with experiential, project-based learning — guided by the rhythms of the seasons and the four elements: Air, Fire, Water, and Earth.
This approach ensures that students master literacy and numeracy while cultivating creativity, empathy, and environmental stewardship. It’s rigorous, joyful, and rooted in real life.
Every lesson, project, and reflection connects back to the natural world — because at Elemental Roots, nature isn’t a subject. It’s the foundation for everything we do.