This work builds on the concept of Nature Intelligence (NQ) developed in the original Nature Intelligence in Youth Work project. In this follow-up, the focus shifts to younger children between the ages of 5 and 12 — a phase in life where natural curiosity and openness to the living world are still deeply present.

To better understand and support children’s connection with nature, we developed a child-friendly version of the NQ model. It identifies six competencies through which children engage with nature: Feel, Connect, Amaze (grouped under the dimension of Dreaming), and Can, Dare, Accept (under Doing). These competencies help describe how children relate to nature both emotionally and through action.

Observation-based tests were created for adults — including teachers, parents, and nature educators — to assess these competencies in a playful and accessible way. Based on the results, children can be grouped into four profiles, offering insight into how to support them in outdoor learning and development.

This follow-up project aims to give language and structure to something often sensed but rarely articulated: how children experience nature, and how we can help that connection grow.