Helping children thrive through nature

Why this matters to us

“We believe children thrive when they feel safe, seen and connected to the world around them.”

We are proud to be taking part in the NaturEd research study, led by the University of Exeter, exploring how nature-based education can support the mental health and wellbeing of neurodivergent young people over time.

Why we are taking part?

At The Ranch Xtreme, we care deeply about creating a place where children and young people feel safe, welcomed and able to be themselves.

We see every day how being outdoors, spending time with animals, building trusted relationships and learning through hands-on experiences can make a real difference. Time in nature can help young people feel calmer, more confident, more connected and more ready to thrive.

We hope this research will help show how important nature-based education can be for children and young people, especially those who may find mainstream settings more difficult.

About the study

We are taking part in the NaturEd study because we want the benefits of outdoor, therapeutic and nature-based provision to be seen, understood and valued by everyone.

How taking part helps

If you choose for your child to take part, you will be helping researchers learn more about how outdoor education and time in nature can support wellbeing over time.

By taking part, you and your child would be helping us build evidence that could support more young people to benefit from provisions like ours in the future.

Your involvement would help share the value of outdoor learning, connection and care, and support important research into what helps children and young people thrive.

What taking part involves

The study involves simple questionnaires at the beginning and end of a block of sessions.

These questionnaires help researchers understand how children and young people are feeling over time and whether nature-based provision is making a positive difference.

questionnaires are simple and designed to be manageable
participation is voluntary
families can ask questions before deciding

A gentle and supportive approach

We understand that families want to know that any research involving their child is handled with care.

At The Ranch Xtreme, the wellbeing of every child and young person comes first. We are proud to be part of a study that reflects the values we hold every day: safety, connection, trust, belonging and the belief that every young person deserves the chance to flourish.

Would you like to find out more?

Thank you for considering being part of this important work and for supporting us in sharing the value of nature-based education.

If you would like to find out more about the study or how to take part, please get in touch.