Hey Parents!
Many of your favorite childhood memories may involve playing and exploring outside: climbing trees, riding bikes, playing tag, swimming, building sandcastles, constructing forts, exploring the world around you and imagining your way into new worlds.
But did you know that time spent outdoors in nature for American kids has decreased by more than 50%, on average? Meanwhile, time spent inside and plugged into electronic media has stretched to more than six hours per day. Today’s children are the first generation to grow up somewhat disconnected from nature.
American kids spend 50% less time outside than their parents did.
It's time for a Green Hour
National Wildlife Federation’s Green Hour encourages parents and caregivers to help their children explore the outdoors safely and develop habits for a daily dose of nature. This is important because we know that getting outside and connecting with nature on a regular basis has important emotional, mental and physical health benefits, especially for children.
MENTAL HEALTH
Daily unstructured free play improves children’s physical and mental health.
ACTIVELY ENGAGED
Physically active kids are more creative, less aggressive and show better concentration.
LEARNING RETENTION
Outdoor experiences and education enhance children’s ability to learn and retain knowledge.
STEWARDSHIP
Outdoor experiences build a conservation ethic and concern for the natural world.
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