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We connect donors to learning resources and ways to support community-led solutions. Learn more about us.
In honor of Earth Day, we thought it would be a good idea to check in with our friends at The Children & Nature Network, an organization dedicated to creating a world in which all children play, learn and grow with nature in their everyday lives.
C&NN were kind enough to join us for a Twitter chat, in which we discussed the many benefits of getting kids outside. Check out the recap below!
Although it’s a relatively new area of study, a growing body of evidence indicates that nature has a powerful -- & positive -- effect on children’s healthy development. Hundreds of studies show that time spent in nature makes children happier, healthier & smarter! #GCNatureChat
— Children & Nature (@ChildrenNature) April 20, 2018
Since we launched, we’ve shared research on the benefits of the outdoors for kids. Recently we launched eeRESEARCH, a joint research library w NAAEE that provides free access to the combined research collections of C&NN & NAAEE in one portal: https://t.co/FXy0TyeJ9U #GCNatureChat
— Children & Nature (@ChildrenNature) April 20, 2018
Tech is a part of our--& our kids' world so balance is key. For some families, using tech in moderation or apart from nature may work. To truly get the benefits of nature, families may want to leave tech at home or turned off when outdoors.
— Children & Nature (@ChildrenNature) April 20, 2018
Setting aside screen-free days or WEEKS (Screen Free Week is 4/23) is a great way to reconnect your children w nature. A great opportunity for kids to try something new or tune into the natural world! @GivingCompass https://t.co/bxIU6V3Lsn #GCNatureChat
— Children & Nature (@ChildrenNature) April 20, 2018
ICYMI, @ChildrenNature is joining us today to talk about the many benefits of getting kids outside ...
QUESTION No. 3 in the #GCNatureChat: What can schools do to promote more learning in nature?
— Giving Compass (@GivingCompass) April 20, 2018
.@GivingCompass -One of the ways schools can promote more learning in nature is through #greenschoolyards which encourage imaginative, cooperative free play and offer a myriad of benefits including academic, health, social and environmental! https://t.co/ba6pnexiWg #GCNatureChat
— Children & Nature (@ChildrenNature) April 20, 2018
We're still chatting away with @ChildrenNature! Let's get to another topic in the #GCNatureChat
QUESTION No. 4: In what ways can we restore balance for access to the outdoors among different ethnic and socioeconomic groups?
— Giving Compass (@GivingCompass) April 20, 2018
A4 Children are experiencing a growing disconnect from the natural world, w some facing greater barriers 2 nature than others. Income level & race play a role in whether or not kids have regular access to green space. #GCNatureChat @GivingCompass
— Children & Nature (@ChildrenNature) April 20, 2018
We need to address barriers for low-income children & communities of color. With this challenge in mind, C&NN & @leagueofcitiespartner on the CCCN initiative 2 connect grassroots efforts w leaders who can drive municpal policy chng: https://t.co/0sVhUnRSrY #GCNatureChat
— Children & Nature (@ChildrenNature) April 20, 2018
And of course there are many programs outside of C&NN’s work that aim to increase equity. On a national level, #EveryKidOutdoors is a fantastic program that ensures EVERY child in the 4th grade in the US has the opportunity to visit & enjoy national lands & waters. #GCNatureChat
— Children & Nature (@ChildrenNature) April 20, 2018
Thanks to all who joined us for #GCNatureChat! We're going to wrap things up with this last topic about getting kids outside ...
QUESTION No. 5 for @ChildrenNature: How can individual donors make an impact in this area?
— Giving Compass (@GivingCompass) April 20, 2018
.@GivingCompass There's a lot of passion for this issue! Last fall, we launched a membership model to bring in more voices! C&NN members are more deeply connected to our broad coalition of practitioners, researchers, parents, educators, grassroots leaders & others. #GCNatureChat
— Children & Nature (@ChildrenNature) April 20, 2018
.@GivingCompass - By becoming a member, you’ll help us build a more powerful base for connecting children to nature -- and help us better understand and meet your needs! https://t.co/At5CmXz029 #GCNatureChat
— Children & Nature (@ChildrenNature) April 20, 2018