Why Kids Need a Big Dose of Nature

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I grew up on a 100 acer tree farm in the mid west. I used to locked outside on nice days when i was a kid. Growing up being physically active outdoors has helped mold me into the calm, collective, self motivated easy going person i am today. I would say that to this day i send just as much time outside as i do in.

Tyler Chronister of OH 11:38AM January 21, 2012

Thank you Richard Louv for reminding us that our children need to literally "get their hands dirty!"
Nature is our "cookie jar" and it's time to encourage children of all ages to remove that top and enjoy the sweet, delicious surprises that await. We will ALL be the better for it.

Deborah Snyder of MT 5:37PM July 16, 2008

One should add a reason for children not being in the forests & parks is the dramatic rise in ENTRANCE FEES. This is especially true for low & middle income familes. All over the nation, the national forests and parks are raising entrance fees and charging fees where none existed before.
For example, Mt. Lemmon in Tucson is charging entrance fees now and now you will not see as many young families on the mountain as in the past. We need to reset our federal funding priorities.
Member,
Western Slope No-Fee Coalition

Caroline Salcido of AZ 7:03PM March 16, 2008

Nothing to add. I think a kid needs to make exercise ,and to be in contacto with nature frecuently, instead of been sitting down hours --every day in front of the TV or computer.

Alejandro Padron of 1:55PM March 05, 2008

To even stop and get out of your car on the road that goes throught the state park that is near my house you must have a "Wilderness Permit" which you must purchase from the rangers station or you will be ticketed or towed. This is what Sierra club and the state of California believe should happen. They expect people to just submit and drive 15 miles, between the hours of 9-5, except holidays (during which you must purchase ahead of time) pay the money and then go hiking, while hoping your car doesn't get stolen.
I'd rather watch a movie with my kids than deal with the hassle.

David of CA 3:41PM February 14, 2008