Why Nature Helps Build Relationships
Macfarlane then linked these observations to the princess’s work on early childhood. He noted that Kate has repeatedly emphasized the importance of the first five years of life and asked her how nature could contribute to laying the foundations for development. The princess emphasized how central relationships are during early childhood: “So much of early childhood is about building nurturing environments that allow strong relationships to grow.”
The princess explained that a child gradually develops various relationships: with themselves, with their parents or caregivers, with other children, and with the world around them. “The natural world gives children an extraordinary environment in which to develop those relationships,” she said. In this regard, she recalled her visit to Reggio Emilia, Italy—an experience she described as particularly meaningful because it allowed her to rediscover many of the principles that guide the work of her Centre for Early Childhood.
Among these is the importance of relationships, the environment, experiences, and, above all, the ability to truly listen to children. “Nature wasn’t another lesson; it offered an integral space that encouraged questions, that stimulated imagination, curiosity, and collaboration,” she explained.
On the very same day the interview was published, Kate visited Chase Community Hospital in Bordon, Hampshire, to learn firsthand about the expansion of a project supported by the Royal Foundation’s Centre for Early Childhood. The initiative aims to help identify more infants who, along with their families, may need additional support during the first months and years of life. During the visit, the princess met with health care workers, professionals, and families involved in using the Alarm Distress Baby Scale, known by the acronym ADBB. This observation tool, which she learned about during her visit to Copenhagen, enables health care providers to identify early signs of social and relational withdrawal in children.
