Purpose: This study aims to identify the role of nature-related features in promoting well-being from the perspective of children as the users of post-disaster schools. It highlights the importance of connectedness to nature in design strategies for post-disaster school reconstruction. Design/methodology/approach: The mixed-method study was conducted in three primary schools reconstructed after the earthquakes in Lombok (Indonesia) and Chiang Rai (Thailand) that integrated some nature-related elements in their design. The questionnaire survey explored the children’s satisfaction with the post-disaster school environment as an indication of well-being. Findings: The findings suggest that priority in post-disaster school design strategies should incorporate nature-related design features that provide opportunities for children to be with friends and to play, to learn in comfortable and safe conditions, to interact with nature and to be in a quiet and relaxing place. Originality/value: Most post-disaster reconstruction prioritizes the speed of construction rather than the spatial qualities that could help children deal with the disaster. This study provides evidence on the potential of nature-related design features to support the children’s well-being after the disaster. © 2023, Emerald Publishing Limited.