We all know that ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) involves a struggle to maintain attention. It’s no surprise that a lot of research has gone into what happens in our brains when we concentrate. But what does that have to do with “Green-Time?”
People without ADHD experience “attention fatigue” more quickly than others when they try to pay attention to something for too long without a break. Research has proven that “green time” or time spent in a natural environment helps our brains replenish themselves. The is extra good news for people with ADHD; it will help them, too!
Green-Time Studies
There have been a large number of studies since 2000 that have conclusively shown that adults and children both have less ADHD challenges if they spend time with nature.
It doesn’t have to be “different,” it can just be your own backyard. It doesn’t have to be for long periods of time, even just a half an hour can make a huge difference. What the studies show is that while being exposed to green growing things is helpful, being SURROUNDED by green things like grass and trees made the most significant difference. The greener and more natural the environment the better the effects.
What can you do?
So does that mean we should all immediately abandon our cities and move to the country? The studies prove that for children living in cities even having a view of a green environment from a window helped them improve their attention and impulse control over children with barren views. Playing outside more, taking the greener route to school, and even doing work in front of a window with a green view are small things that we could easily do to help children with ADHD.
CAMPING!
LEADPrep knows how to support students, including those with ADHD. We understand about the connection between Green-Time and ADHD! Our students often take part in outdoor activities and frequently have field trips to greener locations. Each September, we go camping for a week! This year we were based at the Kanaskat-Palmer State Park. What a great way for kids to ease back into school, share different strengths, and forge a community! We are front-loading student brains to prepare for a great year of learning!
