Why EYE Works
Why connect young people with the natural world?
More than simply being a group of avid tree-huggers, the EYE philosophy is actually based on cutting edge research. Evidence supporting the importance of re-connecting youth and nature is reverberating throughout the local and international academic community. Studies are emerging stressing the importance of a connection with the natural world1, and terms such as nature deficit disorder2 are being coined as the negative consequences on young people’s disconnection from nature are being investigated.
The future will belong to the nature-smart—those individuals, families, businesses, and political leaders who develop a deeper understanding of the transformative power of the natural world and who balance the virtual with the real.
Richard Louv, author of “Last Child in the Woods”
A recent literature review from the University of Western Australia3 found that increased contact with nature is associated with positive effects on children’s health, behavior, and learning. Through EYE camps and nature based activities, we provide a bridge between young people and their natural environment that gives them a sense of belonging, inspires them to learn, and empowers them to become agents of change.
This camp has been absolutely amazing. Getting back into nature was fantastic and I feel that being in this environment has changed me and helped me grow as a person.
Isabella, age 14
EYE youth leaders will be our leaders of tomorrow
EYE has found that the challenges of the natural world provide the perfect setting to build confidence and gain leadership experience. The positive results of our Adult-Youth Mentoring model is supported by current Australian and international research4, and our “youth leading youth” approach allows EYE members to develop the knowledge and skills necessary to become strong and powerful advocates for positive change, while developing their own personal resilience.
…few areas of life provide young people with as much opportunity as the natural world for critical thinking, creative inquiry, problem solving and intellectual development.
Stephen Kellert, editor of “Children and Nature”
EYE is helping to create new paradigms of youth leadership.
EYE reconnects youth and nature.
EYE empowers and builds resilience.
EYE is visioning up an amazing future for our planet!
