On 16 October 2026 the Centre for Early Childhood announced that the Princess of Wales has commissioned new work exploring the role of nature in the earliest years of life. This short explainer sets out what has been announced and, just as usefully, what has not.
What was announced
The Princess visited Cornwall to learn about nature-based learning in early childhood and to announce the project. The Duchy of Cornwall is a founding partner. She has asked the Royal Foundation Centre for Early Childhood, working with expert partners, to explore how nature-rich environments and nurturing relationships can help babies and young children build core social and emotional skills.
The thinking behind it
The Centre says the work builds on its Shaping Us Framework and its Foundations for Life guide, which set out the evidence on early childhood development. They emphasise social and emotional skills: how children manage emotions and thoughts, communicate and relate to others, and explore the world around them. The project also follows the Princess's earlier visits in the UK and abroad, including Denmark and Reggio Emilia in Italy, where she met educators, researchers and practitioners.
What parents say
Polling commissioned by the Centre found that 84% of parents believe time in nature supports their child's wellbeing and development. Only 33% said their child spends time in nature every day. The Centre reports that most parents want their children to spend more time in nature and to have better access to nature-based experiences through childcare and education.
Who will take part
The project will bring together academics, early years practitioners, charities and environmental organisations. Christian Guy, the Centre's Executive Director, called it "a golden opportunity to create a healthier, happier society for future generations." Dr Nicola Kemp of The Froebel Trust said that childhood "provides a particularly important opportunity to develop these connections."
What we do not yet know
The Centre says further details will be announced in due course. At the time of writing there is no published timetable, budget, list of outputs or full list of partners beyond the Duchy of Cornwall. We will not guess at them. For the full announcement, read the Centre for Early Childhood's own news page.