This week I learned about The Children & Nature Network, an organization with a great mission: The Children & Nature Network (C&NN) was created to encourage and support the people and organizations working worldwide to reconnect children with nature. C&NN provides access to the latest news and research in the field and a peer-to-peer network of researchers and individuals, educators and organizations dedicated to children’s health and well-being.
There are a growing number of local chapters and on the site you can read about groups such as in the Bay Area, North Carolina and Saratoga Springs,New York, which are launching community-wide campaigns to get children and adults outside to play and explore in nature. Awesome! The coordinated efforts of hospitals, universities, museums, individuals and businesses is impressive and inspiring. Each chapter has their own unique take on the central theme of reconnecting children and nature, and I can feel the enthusiasm of the folks involved in each worthwhile event.
It is empowering to be part of a movement. Here at home, my boys and I have joined 4-H and Roots & Shoots: Roots & Shoots, a program of the Jane Goodall Institute, is a powerful, youth-driven, global network of more than 8,000 groups in almost 100 countries. Together, youth of all ages are taking action to improve our world through service learning projects that promote care and concern for animals, the environment and the human community.
For me (and many others), nature has become a powerful and effective antidote to screen-time. The benefits of imaginative, natural play, as well as taking care of the earth, serve us well. Whether you chose to join an organization, or are happy to find your own ways to connect children with nature, it is energizing to know that so many others are in this important pursuit!
Oh my gosh- I am so so happy that you joined Roots and Shoots… I am looking into forming a chapter at my middle school
They do such great things- Day of Peace is coming up! Say hi to the boys!