June 11th was National Get
Outdoors Day! Remember how easy it was to
spend time in nature growing up? Today it can seem hard to break free and get
out there to share that same experience with your kids. But it's worth it --
and nature is closer than you think.
Every neighborhood has a #Naturehood. To find a
neighborhood park or green space near you, visit DiscoverTheForest.org. These “naturehoods” are just a short-drive
away, making it easy for families to unplug from the daily routine and
reconnect with nature.
Populations have shifted away from rural
settings to metropolitan areas, with over 80% of Americans living in cities,
and with fewer connections than ever to natural areas. DiscoverTheForest.org
highlights that urban forests offer many of the same benefits as national
forests, but they’re right in the neighborhood. Beyond the swings, slides and
clearings, there are trails, trees, wildlife and water just waiting for the
urban dweller.
Research has shown that children who play outside have lower stress levels and more active imaginations, become fitter and leaner, develop stronger immune systems and are more likely to become environmentally conscious in the future. According to campaign research done by Euro RSCG, 88 percent of children today say they like being in nature, and 79 percent wish they could spend more time there.
Research has shown that children who play outside have lower stress levels and more active imaginations, become fitter and leaner, develop stronger immune systems and are more likely to become environmentally conscious in the future. According to campaign research done by Euro RSCG, 88 percent of children today say they like being in nature, and 79 percent wish they could spend more time there.
DiscoverTheForest.org
features an interactive map tool that enables users to search for nearby
forests and parks, and filter by zip code and desired activities. Free outdoor
activities are also available for download and printing, which you can take the
next time you visit. So, what areyou waiting for? Get up and get out toDiscover the Forest for yourself! #ForestFotog
Discover the Forest is a non-profit public service campaign created by the U.S. Forest Service and the Ad Council with the primary goal of inspiring kids and their parents to re-connect with nature. The campaign brings to life the joy and excitement kids have when they discover the wonders of nature, helping create lasting memories, interest in their environment and a lifelong relationship with it. The campaign website, www.DiscoverTheForest.org, includes an interactive tool that enables users to search for nearby forests and parks, as well as downloadable activities for them to print and take with them when they visit. The campaign also features online communities on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and Pinterest.
*This is a guest post provided by Element Associates on behalf of the AdCouncil and U.S. Forest Service