Attachment, Nature, and the Young Child’s Felt Sense of God

Abstract

It is proposed that young children may develop a felt sense of God through an attachment to nature that parallels their attachment to significant people in their lives. Children learn through their senses and young children experience a sense of awe and wonder when immersed in nature. Research supports the argument that children who are exposed to nature develop personal attributes that help them flourish. This article argues for a nexus between young children’s sensory experiences in nature and their felt sense of God.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Beverly J. Christian

Beverly J. Christian is a Senior Lecturer in the School of Education at Avondale University College. Her research interests include school culture and ethos, pedagogical approaches to learning, and the role of nature in children’s well-being and spirituality.