04-23-2010, 11:10 AM
COLUMBUS, OHIO-School children from across the state are receiving their Explore the Outdoor program guides just in time to celebrate Earth Week outside. Joined by a number of organizations concerned with children's declining participation in outdoor activities, the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) has distributed more than 600,000 guides to Ohio's public elementary school children.
According to recent studies, young people spend more than 7 hours inside watching TV, playing video games and using the computer. Research continues to show that children's participation in outdoor activities is on the decline.
In his book, "Last Child in the Woods: Saving Our Children from Nature-Deficit Disorder," author Richard Louv calls the cumulative effect of withdrawing nature from children's experiences-nature deficit disorder.
"Research has shown that children who are in touch with their natural environment do better in school, have increased creativity and improved concentration," said ODNR Director Sean Logan. "Explore the Outdoors encourages educators and parents alike to spend quality time outdoors, learning about our natural surroundings."
ODNR's free Explore the Outdoors program provides Ohio parents, educators and youth leaders with an easy guide to lead Ohio's youth outside. In addition to guides, Ohio's elementary school teachers have access to an interactive online resource guide and additional activity ideas.
The program's engaging activity guide recommends a variety of fun outdoor activities, including Spot a Bird or Learn from a Naturalist. These and many other activities can be done at a number of parks, local green spaces or even at home. Families are invited to work together to complete Explore the Outdoors activities. A listing of participating sites may be found in the booklet; a number of locally operated parks are also participating.
For each activity completed, students will receive a special code from their teacher, provided by ODNR. Children who enter at least two codes on the Explore the Outdoors Website, www.exploretheoutdoorsohio.com, will receive a print on-demand certificate signed by Governor Ted Strickland. Participants may also enter more codes on-line or mail in their completed postcard entry for a chance to win prizes, such as reduced admission to the Ohio State Fair or free overnight lodging at an Ohio State Park lodge. Activity completion codes are posted at welcome centers and kiosks at all participating facilities.
Visit the Explore the Outdoors Website to check for special events and other program information. The site is a great resource for finding family-friendly outdoor activities throughout the year. Contact 614-784-PLAY or explore@dnr.state.oh.us to obtain additional information or to request activity guides and program resources.
The Explore the Outdoors program is sponsored in part by agencies committed to improving the health of Ohio children and families. Program partners include ODNR divisions Recycling & Litter Prevention and Watercraft, Highlights for Children, American Heart Association and GreenBird Birdhouses.
The Ohio Department of Natural Resources ensures a balance between wise use and protection of our natural resources for the benefit of all. Visit the ODNR Website at www.ohiodnr.com.
According to recent studies, young people spend more than 7 hours inside watching TV, playing video games and using the computer. Research continues to show that children's participation in outdoor activities is on the decline.
In his book, "Last Child in the Woods: Saving Our Children from Nature-Deficit Disorder," author Richard Louv calls the cumulative effect of withdrawing nature from children's experiences-nature deficit disorder.
"Research has shown that children who are in touch with their natural environment do better in school, have increased creativity and improved concentration," said ODNR Director Sean Logan. "Explore the Outdoors encourages educators and parents alike to spend quality time outdoors, learning about our natural surroundings."
ODNR's free Explore the Outdoors program provides Ohio parents, educators and youth leaders with an easy guide to lead Ohio's youth outside. In addition to guides, Ohio's elementary school teachers have access to an interactive online resource guide and additional activity ideas.
The program's engaging activity guide recommends a variety of fun outdoor activities, including Spot a Bird or Learn from a Naturalist. These and many other activities can be done at a number of parks, local green spaces or even at home. Families are invited to work together to complete Explore the Outdoors activities. A listing of participating sites may be found in the booklet; a number of locally operated parks are also participating.
For each activity completed, students will receive a special code from their teacher, provided by ODNR. Children who enter at least two codes on the Explore the Outdoors Website, www.exploretheoutdoorsohio.com, will receive a print on-demand certificate signed by Governor Ted Strickland. Participants may also enter more codes on-line or mail in their completed postcard entry for a chance to win prizes, such as reduced admission to the Ohio State Fair or free overnight lodging at an Ohio State Park lodge. Activity completion codes are posted at welcome centers and kiosks at all participating facilities.
Visit the Explore the Outdoors Website to check for special events and other program information. The site is a great resource for finding family-friendly outdoor activities throughout the year. Contact 614-784-PLAY or explore@dnr.state.oh.us to obtain additional information or to request activity guides and program resources.
The Explore the Outdoors program is sponsored in part by agencies committed to improving the health of Ohio children and families. Program partners include ODNR divisions Recycling & Litter Prevention and Watercraft, Highlights for Children, American Heart Association and GreenBird Birdhouses.
The Ohio Department of Natural Resources ensures a balance between wise use and protection of our natural resources for the benefit of all. Visit the ODNR Website at www.ohiodnr.com.