The exercise of spatial autonomy can promote children’s sense of self with places in their environment
This research used child-led tours to investigate how young children’s spatial autonomy is enacted in two contrasting environments: their home and a forest setting. Spatial autonomy, by inviting children to form a relationship with their environment, can promote agency, a sense of self, self-confidence, and a healthy relationship with their environment.   
Green, 2018. Young children's spatial autonomy in their home environment and a forest setting.