Children & Nature Network - March 21, 2010
The Children & Nature Network (C&NN) was created to encourage and support the people and organizations working worldwide to reconnect children with nature. C&NN provides access to the latest news and research in the field and a peer-to-peer network of researchers and individuals, educators and organizations dedicated to children's health and well-being.
Despite Competition, Camps More Popular Now
Attendance at camps across America isn't shrinking, despite studies showing that the average young person now spends nearly eight hours a day plugged into some sort of electronic media. In fact, attendance at camps nationwide has grown by an average of one to three percent per year over the past several years.
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Education | Event
New and Expanded Coyote’s Guide to Connecting with Nature, 2nd Edition
Expanded material provides new methods of mentoring children in nature. The second edition is more comprehensive and features beautiful full color photographs, a comprehensive index, and color codes that link the principles and activities for easier navigation. Hailed by Richard Louv, author of Last Child in the Woods, as “good medicine for nature-deficit disorder.” Visit www.naturementoring.com to learn more about the 2nd edition and take advantage of a limited-time offer. [+]
Media & Culture
James Cameron: We All Suffer from Nature-Deficit Disorder
At a recent benefit for the Natural Resources Defense Council, director James Cameron talked about trying to change people's perceptions about the natural world though the blockbuster Avatar. Cameron described himself as a "nature geek" and told the audience at the fundraiser that we all suffer from nature-deficit disorder. [+]
Education
Florida Wants Network of Youth Conservation Centers
Members of the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission would like to establish a statewide network of conservation centers that will provide opportunities for young people to participate in outdoor activities and strengthen their connections with and support for fish and wildlife conservation. As one commissioner put it, "We hope to create the next generation of outdoor recreation enthusiasts and conservationists who will continue the work of protecting our wildlife and natural habitats." [+]
Education
Environmental Charter School to Open in Rhode Island
Inspired by Richard Louv's Last Child in the Woods, educators in Rhode Island are creating a new charter high school open to students from across the state. The curriculum at the Greene School will focus on environmental research in a real-world setting while still meeting or exceeding all of the state education requirements, as well as standard college admission requirements. [+]
Health
New UK Report Details Ten Priorities for Action
There's growing evidence that contact with nature and the physical activity related to this contact affect not only children's well-being in the present but also their health in later life. To encourage more such contact, the Interdisciplinary Centre for Environment and Society at the University of Essex in England has released "Nature, Childhood, Health and Life Pathways," a report that describes ten priorities for policy action to improve the well-being of both children and adults. [+]
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As part of our ongoing efforts to build the movement, the Children & Nature Network has published two new resources for leaders, organizers, and participants at the local, national, and international levels: