Reconnect the Children With Nature

This next generation of children will have a lot to deal with regarding taking care of our planet. Sadly so many of today's children do not play outside let alone have the opportunities to run and walk and imagine all the possibilities that being out in nature conjures up. This is an important task laid at the "grown-ups" feet to try and get today's kids out of the house and into mother natures world to learn all that she has to offer. Please take the time to read this article and find out how you can help. Find a way to help the children in your neighborhood learn and enjoy nature. Share your experiences with them. You will never know what you might share that will spark a young mind into a whole new world.

As a result of the recently published book Last Child in the Woods, by Richard Louv, many groups and organizations across the nation are searching for ways to reconnect children with nature. The benefits to children of time spent outdoors are endless. Spending time in natural settings is beneficial for physical and mental health, improving behavior, and faster learning. In an effort to bring increased attention and support to this important issue, we are asking for your organization’s participation. Please forward this email to your Iowa networks (colleagues, organizations, Listservs, websites, friends and family, students, etc.). Encourage others to complete the online survey located at: http://www.surveymonkey.com/s.aspx?sm=nYU56AJw5MLfcHiDiDzl3w_3d_3d With your help, we can identify the fundamental experiences that we believe children in Iowa should have in order to develop a healthy, active lifestyle. Results obtained from the survey will be used to guide creation of an “Iowa Children’s Outdoor Bill of Rights.” This document will list the activities that Iowans recognize as invaluable experiences for our young people to have while growing up, along with a mission statement and goals for its use. Your organization has been chosen to participate in this survey because of your commitment to developing healthy, active, responsible youth. We appreciate your assistance in making this a successful state-wide project.
Barb Gigar Iowa Department of Natural Resources
Email: barb.gigar@dnr.iowa.gov
Phone: 641-747-2200
For those outside of Iowa here is a great resource. http://www.birds.cornell.edu/celebration/temporary/national-forum-on-children-and-nature-endorses-project