Take a Child Outside Week: Sept. 24 – Sept. 30
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- Tomorrow marks the start of Take a Child Outside Week (Sept. 24 – Sept. 30). This is one of the initiatives celebrated by the Children & Nature Network, a movement started by Richard Louv, author of the book Last Child in the Woods: Saving our Children from Nature Deficit Disorder.
Denver Botanic Gardens was fortunate to play host to Richard last September to help building awareness of the construction of our Mordecai Children’s Garden, which opened last month to rave reviews. Richard’s message is simple: Get outside and play!
There are so many important reasons to turn off the TV, the Playstation or the Wii and explore nature, both near and far. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recently came out with a report (AAP report on play) that said that outdoor play is crucial in helping children in their development — socially, emotionally, and cognitively. It also can help them manage stress and stay healthy, playing an obviously vital role in the fight against obesity.
Another important reason to get kids involved in nature early in life is to instill a sense of appreciation and stewardship for the great outdoors. Countless studies have shown that children who hike, climb trees, splash in streams and enjoy the outdoors grow up to be adults who support conservation of the natural world.
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