The purpose of this project is to investigate the profound and lasting effects of early outdoor experiences, referred to as Significant Life Experiences (SLE) or Significant Outdoor Life Experiences (SOLE), on an individual’s Life Course (LC). In 2015, a vital position statement in Canada emphasized the urgent need for the reintroduction of risky outdoor play for children, citing the overwhelming evidence of positive impacts on physical and mental health despite the associated risks (Tremblay et al., 2015). This call to action is particularly timely, given that non-communicable diseases (NCDs), such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, cancers, and chronic lung diseases, now account for a staggering 73% of all deaths worldwide (World Health Organization, 2014). The lack of outdoor experiences, which often correlates with sedentary living, is increasingly recognized as a contributing factor to the prevalence of NCDs. Therefore, promoting outdoor activities becomes crucial in combating these diseases and improving overall health outcomes. There is also a well-established link between physical and mental health, with mental health disorders often co-occurring with physical health conditions (Stein et al., 2019). The interplay between physical and mental health is so intertwined that individuals with mental health conditions are at increased risk of developing unhealthy lifestyle choices, leading to further physical or psychological health issues, and vice versa (Prince et al., 2007).

The importance of understanding the long-term effects of early experiences in nature cannot be overstated, particularly when considering the significant impact that mental or physical health conditions can have on one’s quality of life. Given the evidence above and the lack of high-quality research really identifying the link between health and the outdoors. This research projects aims to understand the impact of early life outdoor experiences and their impact on life choices to begin creating the base for linkages to deeper research identify and elucidating the direct patterns. We recognize that early interactions shape future life outcomes and choices, as supported by the Life Course (LC) and Significant Life Experiences (SLE) theoretical frameworks (Li et al., 2021), thus this research will focus on these central theories and the outdoors. Outdoor interactions are increasingly being noted as a potential preventive and health-promoting tool with mor research indicating linkages between outdoor experiences and positive effects on physical, mental, and social well-being (Holland et al., 2018). By delving into the long-term outcomes of early outdoor SLE, the intention is to shed light on the potential of nature-based experiences to positively influence the life course, leading to improved physical and mental health outcomes and ultimately enhancing overall well-being (Coventry et al., 2021; Holland et al., 2018; Twohig-Bennett & Jones, 2018; van den Bosch & Ode Sang, 2017). This program of research has the potential to inform policies and interventions aimed at promoting healthy development and well-being across the lifespan. It has significant implications for public health and wellness strategies.