The purpose of this study was to examine preschool-aged children’s and their families’ experiences of pre-school education and of how the nature-oriented pre-school activities have contributed to children's health, growth, development and well-being. This thesis was made in cooperation with Forssa nature and sports pre-schools. The aim was to provide information on how nature-oriented early childhood education affects a child's health and well-being and the entire family's well-being.

The theoretical part of the thesis is focused on a child's normal growth, development, health and welfare and well-being of families with children. The research was conducted as a qualitative research. We interviewed pre-school pupils and their caregivers.

The results of the thesis indicate that using nature-orientation a child's behaviour becomes calm, a child is motivated to learn and the physical activity increases. Studying in natural environment through play and activities is meaningful to a child. In conclusion it can be said that studying and being active in natural environment affects positively children’s health, growth, development and well-being. Natural environment has also a positive impact on the families’ well-being. Further research could study the differences between the nature-based school and normal school and the effects on children.