This week we learned about nature deprivation. It is an interesting idea because of our extensive time indoors, we have higher rates of child obesity, higher blood pressure and more instances of ADHD. Through unstructured time outdoors, we can help reverse this, as well as create a greater appreciation for the outdoors and a greater feeling of responsibility when it comes to stewardship of our planet.
Some activities that the National Wildlife Federation suggested to combat this don't limit themselves to nature hikes, but also outdoor scavenger hunts and astronomy, which opens children up to a whole new experience!
These ideas and more were found at:
http://www.treehugger.com/files/2007/05/battling_nature.php
It is interesting that in recent years, attendance to national parks has risen in recent history, according to the story http://www.usatoday.com/travel/destinations/2010-03-01-national-parks-attendance_N.htm
