Hello Daytime Columbus Viewers!!

We enjoyed being on Daytime Columbus today (4/3/12).

Here is some information in case you want to check out some of the things we talked about today with Gail Hogan on air:

To learn more about this issue, actions you can take, etc., there are 2 GREAT sites with which to start: ChildrenandNature.org AND BeOutThere.org

If you’re a PARENT and want to take some simple action steps you could

1. We highly recommend sending your child to a nature camp–either day camp or overnight camp. As alum of an overnight camp in the Hocking Hills, we can attest that this is one of the most meaningful experiences you can give your child. To find an accredited camp go to ACAcamps.org
2. Start a Family Nature Club and take your child and his or her friends to a park regularly, preferably a park that has natural play areas–our Columbus, Ohio Metro Parks have several of these natural play areas. Children can go off the paths to play and explore at these designated parks. Take a book to read and enjoy as the children play and explore the woods. To learn more about Nature Clubs go to ChildrenandNature.org To learn about natural play spaces, go to MetroParks.net or call the Metro Parks
3. Transform your yard into a Backyard habitat and let your child and his or her friends go out regularly to explore and play in nature. To learn about Backyard habitats go to BeOutThere.org

If you are an EDUCATOR, here are some simple actions you can take to get more children outside and reconnected with nature:

1. Go to ChildrenandNature.org to learn more about the powerful research on cognitive development, increased test scores and nature experiences.
2. Turn your traditional asphalt, plastic playground and/or your school yard into a Schoolyard Habitat and regularly integrate outdoor learning into your day and into your curriculum. Go to BeOutThere.org to learn more.

If you are a MEDICAL PROFESSIONAL here are some simple action steps you can take to get more children and families back outside and reconnected with nature:

1. Visit ChildrenandNature.org to learn more about the powerful research that shows that frequent and direct contact with nature is essential for our children’s healthy development
2. Learn more about doctors around the nation who are writing “Nature Prescriptions” for their patients. Go to NEEFusa.org (National Environmental Education Fund)
3. Display “Did Your Child Play Outside Today?–Nature Makes Kids Happier, Healthier and Smarter” posters in your doctor’s office, in your hospital, in your school nurse’s office. Print posters for free at OhioLNCI.org AND may we Leave no child inside!!