Children must connect to nature

A RECENT column on difficulties in getting children to play outdoors and learn to appreciate the natural environment led to a big reaction from readers.

Unsurprisingly, it came largely from primary teachers who feel strongly that teaching their pupils about the natural world is vital for the future of the children and, indeed, that of the planet.

Teachers can have a hugely positive influence on children to the environment. And the subject need not necessarily be on the curriculum, because a good teacher can weave it through the other subjects he, or she, teaches.