Giving Compass' Take:

• The Cities Connecting Children to Nature initiative launched in November 2014 and is now in its latest phase, providing technical assistance for cities to implement strategies that will help connect children to nature. 

• How is this initiative filling a gap for cities that want to encourage children to go outdoors? How can funders support this model? 

• Read about the importance of environmental education programs for children. 

Across the ages and in every culture, childhood has included time playing in and exploring the outdoors. Yet over the last few generations, childhood has moved indoors, leaving kids disconnected from the natural world.

To combat this challenge, the NLC Institute for Youth, Education, and Families and Children & Nature Network (C&NN) launched the Cities Connecting Children to Nature initiative in November 2014.

Now, the latest phase of the initiative from 2017-2020 will engage a second cohort of cities in 2.75 years of technical assistance to develop and implement strategies that equitably connect children to nature, with support of $75,000 in planning and implementation funds and eligibility for an additional catalytic grant. Generous support from The JPB Foundation underwrites the CCCN initiative.

Technical assistance such as customized city support, access to tools and field experts, and peer learning will guide city teams as they develop strategies that address three key questions:

  • Does my city offer enough places for children to connect with nature?
  • What programs and partnerships can draw children and families to nature?
  • How can my city integrate access to nature with other city functions?

Read the full article about the program helping improve kids' access to nature by Priya Cook at Children & Nature Network.