Reconnect Children with Nature

The CAN Council is pleased to be a part of the Saginaw community-wide initiative of organizations, businesses and individuals working to promote local programs and resources that will help children and families spend more time outdoors, a No Child Left Inside initiative. All children should have access, opportunities and encouragement to play outdoors and connect with nature for their physical, emotional and educational well being. Despite advances in public health and medicine, children are developing chronic health conditions, such as obesity and depression, earlier and more frequently than ever before. Research shows that the decline in children’s health is linked in part to their growing disconnect from nature and outdoor play.

Research shows that children who play outside:

■ Are healthier physically and mentally ■ Have more active creative imaginations

■ Are more cooperative with others ■ Are good problem solvers

■ Show fewer signs of obesity ■ Have higher self-esteem

■ Do better in school ■ Have improved attention spans and test scores

■ Are engaged in helping protect our natural resources and environment

For more information visit: www.childrenandnature.org or  No Child Left Inside Coalition

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