Effects of NDD

Signs your child may not have enough nature to exposure

In this section, we look at the signs children may exhibit if they do not have enough contact with nature. These include:

    • the potential for cognitive development not being maximized,
    • maladaptive influences on the way children think, act, and feel,
    • a lack of opportunities to develop social skills and foster emotional maturity to deal with interpersonal conflicts,
    • reduced physical activity resulting in childhood obesity,
    • and the “de-naturing” of children shaping a negative attitude towards natural environments. 

These signs are not diagnosable as NDD because it is currently not a disorder recognized under the DSM-5. However, if your child may be presenting any of these signs, it might be worth finding some ways to integrate nature into their daily lives. 

Header image by Meg Loeks