Dreaming and Doing: A conceptual model for assessing children’s competencies for emotional and hands-on engagement to support connection with nature

This paper introduces the Dreaming and Doing model, a practical framework to assess children’s competencies to engage with nature. The model distinguishes between two core dimensions: Dreaming, comprising emotional and reflective competencies (Feel, Connect, Amaze) and Doing, comprising practical and challenging competencies (Can, Dare, Accept). Developed with educators across four European countries, the model is visually intuitive and designed for direct application in outdoor education. Two age-specific assessment tools were created: an 18-item self-report test for older children (tested with a sample of children aged 9–12; N = 708, the Netherlands) and an adult-reported proxy version of similar length for younger children (tested with children aged 5-8; N = 80, from the Netherlands, Germany, Italy, and Portugal). Both tests showed good internal consistency and validity. The data reveal consistent child profiles, underscoring the value of distinguishing between emotional and hands-on engagement.