Numerous studies, quoted in this thesis prove how significant is the role of nature for the integrated development, health and life of a human being. These studies describe the importance of forests that provide us clean water and air, which contribute to our health. If we are aware of that, there is no doubt whether to take children into the forest or not. Not only they enjoy being there since a new game can take place there every day, it also contributes to their integrated development.
Planned dance and movement activities with children, which were carried out in nature, are described in the thesis, entitled “Through senses to creative movement in the forest”. Nature and movement are a great combination. The purpose of my research was adding some creativity to movement as well as developing the senses. By the means of natural materials and animals I tried to encourage the children to a creative movement. We observed nature – animate as well as inanimate – and tried to imitate it. My goal was to determine children’s moods after the activities and games in the forest.
The thesis consists of two parts – theoretical and empirical. In the theoretical part I described the advantages of natural environment and how it positively affects children, senses and their development from embryo up to the age of four. I explained how we explore nature with different senses and how to encourage children to a creative movement.
In the empirical part, the results of my research are introduced. I observed children’s responses and answered four research questions. 21 children participated in my research: 11 boys and 10 girls between the ages of three and five, all of them pupils of Elementary school of dr. Janez Mencinger, unit Vrtec Bohinj, group Želve.
My conclusion was that, after returning from the forest, children are more positive and calm than after a day spent in a playroom.
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