The Nature Connection Pyramid

The Pyramid builds on the model of the Developmental Play Pyramid. It follows the trajectory of child development and starts with the foundations of pre-verbal engagement with nature and how adults can build these. It considers four levels of nature connection, each of which is expanded in subsequent chapters: Level One – Sensory nature connection and attachment and safety in nature. Level Two – Creative exploration in nature. Level Three – Meaning-making in nature. Level Four – Higher nature connection. A child moves up the Pyramid from basic, sensory engagement to a complex connection based on a deep understanding of nature at a physical and metaphorical level. If a child feels uncomfortable at any of these levels, an adult can guide them back towards experiences from earlier stages to rebuild a stronger foundation.