Spending time outside can have many benefits for young people. A study published in Leisure Sciences looked at two groups of teens. One group went on a nature hike, and the other joined a drama camp.
Both gave teens a break from daily routines, but the nature hike stood out. Being surrounded by nature helped them feel calmer, more confident, and proud of what they can do.
Both groups also felt closer to their peers. Whether they were hiking together or performing on stage, teamwork built stronger friendships. Moreover, the study found that outdoor adventures spark curiosity about nature. Teens who hiked wanted to spend more time outside.
These results serve as a reminder for parents that giving kids opportunities to explore creative activities and the outdoors can help them gain meaningful experiences.
Understanding the Research
Researchers in Finland wanted to understand how different kinds of activities (a nature hike and a drama camp) affect teens. They worked with two groups of 15- to 16-year-olds from local schools in Lahti.
One group spent 3 days hiking and camping in a national park, while the other group took part in a 3-day indoor drama camp in a lakeside center.
During the nature hike, teens carried their own gear, cooked meals over camp stoves, paddled canoes, and slept in tents.
The drama camp group, on the other hand, participated in creative storytelling and performance activities, which were led by professional drama educators. They also reflected on the relationship between humans and nature. (This offered a point of comparison to the nature hike experience.)
The researchers used both surveys and interviews to understand how the experiences affected the teens. The participants filled out questionnaires before, during, right after, and one year after the trips. They measured:
Mood
Vitality
Relaxation
Self-confidence
Social connection
Feelings toward nature
Here’s what the researchers found:
Teens who went on the hike said they felt peaceful and refreshed. The quiet, fresh air, and beauty of the outdoors helped them forget their daily stress.
Even though the hike was tiring, completing physical challenges like carrying a heavy backpack or cooking their own meals made them feel proud.
Drama campers felt happier and more energized after the camp. Working together on performances allowed them to express themselves and enjoy time away from their usual routines.
Teens in both groups said they became closer to their friends. Those who hiked found it easier to connect without phones or school stress, while drama campers felt included by their teammates.
Time in nature sparked curiosity and care for the environment. Many who hiked said they wanted to spend more time outdoors after the trip.
Practical Strategies for Parents and Caregivers
Based on the research, both outdoor adventures and creative activities are valuable for teens. However, outdoor experiences are becoming especially important today, since many spend so much time indoors and are glued to their screens.
Simple steps at home or at school can provide some of the same benefits mentioned in the study.
Take drama or storytelling outside
Have teens act out short plays, improvise scenes, or tell stories inspired by nature. Use natural elements (like trees, rocks, or a clearing) as “props” or settings.
This merges the benefits of creative expression with time in nature. Acting outdoors sparks imagination and teamwork, just like the indoor drama camp, but it adds the restorative effects of fresh air and natural scenery.
Introduce outdoor skills or chores
Gardening, planting flowers, or helping with yard tasks can give your child a sense of accomplishment, similar to cooking meals or setting up tents on a nature hike. You can start small by letting them water plants, pull weeds, or plant easy-to-grow flowers or vegetables.
The key is to keep it simple and fun, and allow them to take ownership of a task from start to finish.
Set aside dedicated time without phones or tablets
This can be their “screen-free creative time.” During this time, they can draw, paint, or craft something. Let them explore ideas freely, without worrying about screens or distractions, so they can focus on expressing themselves.
You can also encourage social connection during creative time. Students can work together on a group project, such as putting on a short play or designing a shared art piece. This helps them practice listening, sharing ideas, and supporting each other just like the drama campers did.
The researchers suggest that teens benefit when they regularly have opportunities for both outdoor adventures and creative arts.
