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Kids in Nature
Helping Parents Get Kids Outside
Reconnecting Families and Nature
We all have those memories from childhood: jumping into a cool lake on a hot summer day, intently watching ants on the march or spending hours just laying back and looking at clouds. And whether we realized it or not, those moments in the outdoors helped shaped our views on the world around us. But those kinds of memories are fading fast for many young people today. The statistics are alarming: in a typical week, only 6 percent of children ages 9-13 play outside on their own (1) and kids 8 to 18 spend an overwhelming 53 hours a week using entertainment media (2).
Getting kids back outside is more important than ever — for the sake of the kids and the future of our planet. Spending time outdoors at a young age is critical to fostering a healthy conservation ethic. That’s why the Conservancy is working all around the world to help create the next generation of conservationists.
Read inspiring stories of kids and young adults experiencing the magic of nature and find activities to get the kids in your life back outside!
Citations:
1: Children and Nature Network, 2008
2. Kaiser Family Foundation.
Children's Nature Treasure Hunt
Help your kids connect with nature and put smiles on their faces by going on a Nature Treasure Hunt!
This national program inspires families to explore nature together.
A nationwide poll reveals kids’ views on the outdoors.
Find out what 72 interns in 19 states have been up to!
Empowering First Nations Youth
First Nations youth learn about their unique environment.
These participants in Conservancy programs are engaged in conservation.
A 7-year-old in California donates his entire piggy bank to the Conservancy.
Sixth-graders in Washington state raise money for rainforests.
See some youthful faces from the animal kingdom.
Slimy, spiny, and colorful… these creatures are unlike anything you’ve ever seen before!
Get up close with an amazing array of wildlife, from penguins and flamingos to zebras and elephants.
Watch as sisters discover the fun to be had outside of the house.
Join these college students as they explore an oyster reef restoration project.
Two teens raise money for the Conservancy with a tea party.
An ecologist explains the surprising relationship between kids and bugs.
Test your knowledge of the world's coral reefs with our interactive quiz!
How do you inspire your kids to get outside? Share Your Tips!
Read More
We need to act now, before it's too late. Watch the Video, Take Action
We're addressing Latin America's most pressing conservation issues. Read the Story
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