Exploring the Effects of an Interpretive Day Camp Program on Children’s Environmental Attitudes

Abstract

Research suggests that childhood connection to nature leads to lifelong positive environmental attitudes. This study examines the effects of a day camp program developed using interpretive best practices on youth environmental attitudes. The study also investigates which programmatic elements were most memorable. Children’s Environmental Perceptions Scale questionnaires showed small increases in participant’s (n = 22) positive environmental attitudes after the program, with slight significant increases in overall attitudes (Wilcoxon signed-ranks test, z = −2.138, p = .031, r = .46) and interest in nature (z = −2.640, p = .005, r = .56). During interviews, most participants did not report a change in their general feelings toward nature although positive site-specific attitudes increased. Interviews revealed that novel hands-on and exploratory experiences were the most memorable. These results indicate that incorporating these techniques into interpretive programs may increase their impact on participant attitudes.