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National
American Way – March 01, 2010
Despite Competition, Camps More Popular Now
By Winton Ross
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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National | Legislation/Policy
Department of the Interior – February 08, 2010
Salazar Unveils New “Youth in the Great Outdoors” Initiative
Secretary of the Interior Ken Salazar emphasized the importance of connecting young people with nature when he proposed significant expansion of the Youth in the Great Outdoors initiative. “The future of America’s treasured landscapes depends upon the next generation’s understanding of and connection to the great outdoors," said Salazar. As part of his FY 2011 budget proposal, Salazar is requesting large increases in education and recreation programs that engage youth of all ages. [+]
National | Campaign/Initiative
The White House – September 25, 2009
Obama Declares September 26 National Public Lands Day
President Obama has signed a proclamation declaring September 26, 2009, National Public Lands Day. In the words of the proclamation, this is "an opportunity for all Americans, young and old, to celebrate the majesty of our open spaces and devote our collective efforts to conserving our Nation's unique landscapes." And, "Today, we affirm our resolve to conserve these cherished spaces for our enjoyment and for that of future generations." [+]
State | Leadership
The (Connecticut) Day – September 10, 2009
Connecticut Appointee Vows to Continue No Child Left Inside Efforts
By Judy Benson
Amey Marrella, nominated by Connecticut Governor M. Jodi Rell to be the state’s new commissioner of the Department of Environmental Protection, has vowed to maintain a commitment to state parks and to the No Child Left Inside Initiative begun by her predecessor, Gina McCarthy, to foster a love of the outdoors and outdoor activities among young people.
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National | Resource
Washington Post – August 18, 2009
Washington Post: The Good Side of “Glamping”
By Lori Aratani
As the Washington Post reports, retailers and park officials across the country are scrambling to make camping easier and more comfortable for those unaccustomed to roughing it. But rather than criticizing such efforts, the Children & Nature Network’s Cheryl Charles says they should be encouraged. “I would not be critical of ‘glamping,’ ” she tells the paper. “There’s not one right way to reconnect with nature.”
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Local
(Boulder County) Daily Camera – August 03, 2009
Housing Complex Bans Unsupervised Outdoor Play
By Amy Bounds
Families in the Eagle Place Townhomes affordable housing complex in suburban Colorado are upset about a new policy that they say prohibits kids 15 and younger from playing outside without adult supervision. “Before, kids would all play together and have fun,” one resident told a local reporter. “Now it looks like a ghost town.”
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Local | Leadership
C&NN BOD member Brother Yusuf is Honored by Albany’s Commission on Human Rights
Children & Nature Network board member, Brother Yusuf Burgess, was presented with the award for his work in supporting diversity, tolerance and understanding in the Albany community. Yusuf was honored by the City of Albany's Commission on Human Rights at their first annual celebration held February 4 at City Hall. Brother Yusuf's Camps Diversity Program provides outdoor and natural resource experiences to youth, especially from urban areas, who would not otherwise have such opportunities. Through a comprehensive program of pre-camp activities, one week at DEC summer residential camp, and post-camp activities, the expectation is that some who attend will one day seek higher education and careers in environmental fields.
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International
LiveMint – December 11, 2008
A Call for More Open Spaces for Kids in India
By Himanshu Burte
In a recent article, the architect and writer Himanshu Burte laments the lack of public spaces in India where children can play. “Our cities are expanding, filling up, going higher, and digging down,” he notes. “But have we left our kids behind in the rush?”
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Built Environment
Wisconsin Radio Network – July 26, 2010
Madison Children’s Museum: Tickled Pink About Being Green
By Jackie Johnson
New Madison Children's Museum features rooftop garden, other nature play in urban setting.
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Feature | Health
UK Guardian – August 16, 2010
Why Our Children Need to Get Outside in Nature
By Jon Henley
64% of British children play outside less than once a week and have little relationship with nature.
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Feature | Built Environment
Denver Post – August 13, 2010
Reconnecting with Wonder at Gardens
By Lisa Wirthman
Denver Botanic Gardens and others worldwide are re-evaluating their role in bringing children and nature back together.
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Feature
Associated Press – June 24, 2010
Fresh-Air Fun Still Possible With Push
By Melissa Rayworth
Most parents say they want their children to spend more time in nature, yet face some challenges getting them there. Some ideas to overcome them.
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Pittsburgh Tribune-Review – July 06, 2010
Turn Your Backyard into a Discovery Zone
By Kellie Gormly
Simple tips for creating a backyard discovery zone for exploration, nature awareness and unstructured play.
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International | Campaign/Initiative | Legislation/Policy
Herald Scotland – June 29, 2010
Helping Kids to Play Outdoors
By Vicki Allan
Scotland's Children & Nature movement is gaining support from government, parents and schools.
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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:
