Mommy Goes Green

U.S. children spend 50% less time outdoors than 20 years ago and research shows that children who play outside:

• play more creatively
• have lower stress levels
• have more active imaginations
• become fitter and leaner
• develop stronger immune systems
• have greater respect for themselves, for others, and for the environment

The U.S. Forest Service and Ad Council have partnered to inspire children to reconnect with nature with their new campaign ‘Where The Other You Lives’.  While this may seem a little counter intuitive, the site offers an online place for kids to ‘play in nature’ educating them about animal sounds, animal tracks, leaf rubbings and a lesson on how to use a compass.  Maybe this will help stimulate your kids to take their new skills into nature.  You can also print a book of “Stuff to Do Outside” that has activities for kids to take with them on their adventure into a park or forest. 

For parents, there are suggestions on how to help your kids experience nature including :

• get a field guide to take with you as they can provide information about the surrounding area, plants and animals
• give your kids time to free play – let them explore and get dirty!

If you are looking for place to start, look to your neighborhood park.  Just getting outside is the perfect beginning to reconnecting your kids with nature.  When you are ready to adventure beyond the park, explore water, mountains and forests.  At the beginning of the summer, I posted a list of outdoor activities you can enjoy with your kids.  Check it out for some great ideas.