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Raising Stewards: How Homesteads Can Help Shape the Next Generation

Why awareness and respect of our land among young people is essential for biodiversity, resilience, and their own wellbeing.

In today’s fast-paced, screen-saturated world, the natural environment is becoming increasingly distant for many young people. Across Europe, children are spending less time outdoors than ever before, and the consequences are both personal and planetary. According to the 2024 Schools for Nature report by the WWF, only 24% of UK schools provide daily opportunities for pupils to experience nature, with 56% of secondary schools reporting they do not offer any outdoor learning opportunities to any pupils. This is despite mounting evidence that nature-based education improves mental health, academic performance, and ecological awareness.

For smallholders, this disconnect can feel especially pressing. This way of life depends not only on working with the land but on understanding it. If the next generation is to carry this tradition forward, they need to learn how to live alongside nature. That means passing on practical self-sufficiency, ecological care, and respect for seasonal rhythms - skills that are becoming less common, yet remain deeply valuable.

Why should European homesteads involve children in land stewardship now?

Europe is facing a biodiversity crisis, with the European Environment Agency reporting that over 60% of species assessed are in poor condition. By involving children directly in planting, composting, and various other wildlife-friendly practices, homesteads can help reverse these declines while teaching the next generation practical skills. This isn’t just about education, it’s about ensuring that local plots contribute to continental resilience.

How does time outdoors on a homestead counteract the effects of excessive screen use?

The average child in Europe can spend six hours a day on screens, according to EU health surveys. This has been linked to reduced physical activity and rising anxiety. Homestead tasks such as sowing seeds, harvesting vegetables, or observing pollinators provide sensory-rich experiences that improve concentration and wellbeing. Studies by Natural England, such as the People and Nature Survey for England (2023 update), show that 88% of children and young people agree that being in nature makes them very happy. Furthermore, those who spend time outside at least once a week are more likely to report "very high" levels of happiness compared to those who do not.

What practical benefits do children gain from learning self-sufficiency at home?

Beyond ecological awareness, children gain resilience and confidence. For example, learning to grow kale or garlic teaches patience and planning, while preserving food builds resourcefulness. These skills mirror historical practices. During post-war Europe, victory gardens sustained millions of households, and remain relevant today as supply chains face instability. Involving children in these traditions ensures they inherit not only knowledge but also a sense of agency in shaping their future.

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