Why Kids Should Play Outside in Every Weather: Sun, Rain, Snow and More! Feel Confident Outdoors No Matter The Weather.
National Wildlife Federation (NWF) created the Be Out There movement to give back to American children what they don’t even know they have lost: their connection to the natural world. In the process, NWF aims to help reverse alarming health trends and help families raise happier, healthier children. Signs everywhere show the spirit of the movement taking hold.
For more information, go to www.beoutthere.org/join
A Parent’s Guide to Overcoming Common Obstacles for Kids and Outdoor Play.
National Wildlife Federation (NWF) created the Be Out There movement to give back to American children what they don’t even know they have lost: their connection to the natural world. In the process, NWF aims to help reverse alarming health trends and help families raise happier, healthier children. Signs everywhere show the spirit of the movement taking hold.
For more information, go to www.beoutthere.org/join
This article illustrates how getting dirty outdoors benefits kids. Who would have thought something we spend so much time wiping, sweeping, and mopping away could be so good for kids’ health? Spending time outside is great for kids, and studies show that getting dirty while they’re out there might be even better. Studies have shown benefits to immune systems, hearts and skin, as well as kids’ emotional well-being and learning skills.
National Wildlife Federation (NWF) created the Be Out There movement to give back to American children what they don’t even know they have lost: their connection to the natural world. In the process, NWF aims to help reverse alarming health trends and help families raise happier, healthier children. Signs everywhere show the spirit of the movement taking hold.
For more information, go to www.beoutthere.org/join
Offering sufficient outdoor time improves the overall health of our children while lengthening attention spans, diminishing aggressiveness, improving test scores and ultimately advancing learning. This guide addresses those concerns.
National Wildlife Federation (NWF) created the Be Out There movement to give back to American children what they don’t even know they have lost: their connection to the natural world. In the process, NWF aims to help reverse alarming health trends and help families raise happier, healthier children. Signs everywhere show the spirit of the movement taking hold.
For more information, go to www.beoutthere.org/join
American kids are out of shape, tuned out and stressed out because they’re missing something essential to their health and development, unstructured time playing outdoors.
National Wildlife Federation (NWF) created the Be Out There movement to give back to American children what they don’t even know they have lost: their connection to the natural world. In the process, NWF aims to help reverse alarming health trends and help families raise happier, healthier children. Signs everywhere show the spirit of the movement taking hold.
For more information, go to www.beoutthere.org/join
Three Ways Nature and Outdoor Time Improve Your Child’s Sleep: A Guide for Parents and Caregivers.
National Wildlife Federation (NWF) created the Be Out There movement to give back to American children what they don’t even know they have lost: their connection to the natural world. In the process, NWF aims to help reverse alarming health trends and help families raise happier, healthier children. Signs everywhere show the spirit of the movement taking hold.
For more information, go to www.beoutthere.org/join
Be Out There takes an in-depth look at how to balance screen time with green time in the report, Friending Fresh Air: Connecting Kids to Nature in a Digital Age. Here, we offer insight on how to use technology you already love and still connect your kids to nature.
How Outdoor Education and Outdoor School Time Create High Performance Students.
In this report, we summarize the available studies on the role of outdoor learning programs and outdoor play time in furthering children’s overall education: improving their lifelong learning skills, prospects for career success and school test scores.
National Wildlife Federation (NWF) created the Be Out There movement to give back to American children what they don’t even know they have lost: their connection to the natural world. In the process, NWF aims to help reverse alarming health trends and help families raise happier, healthier children. Signs everywhere show the spirit of the movement taking hold.
For more information, go to www.beoutthere.org/join
Nature deficit has had profound impacts on our children’s mental and physical health. Over the past 20 years, time spent playing outdoors has been cut in half, but the childhood obesity rate has more than doubled and the adolescent obesity rate has tripled.
National Wildlife Federation (NWF) created the Be Out There movement to give back to American children what they don’t even know they have lost: their connection to the natural world. In the process, NWF aims to help reverse alarming health trends and help families raise happier, healthier children. Signs everywhere show the spirit of the movement taking hold.
For more information, go to www.beoutthere.org/join
A Parent’s Guide to Overcoming Common Obstacles for Kids and Outdoor Play.
National Wildlife Federation (NWF) created the Be Out There movement to give back to American children what they don’t even know they have lost: their connection to the natural world. In the process, NWF aims to help reverse alarming health trends and help families raise happier, healthier children. Signs everywhere show the spirit of the movement taking hold.
For more information, go to www.beoutthere.org/join
This article illustrates how getting dirty outdoors benefits kids. Who would have thought something we spend so much time wiping, sweeping, and mopping away could be so good for kids’ health? Spending time outside is great for kids, and studies show that getting dirty while they’re out there might be even better. Studies have shown benefits to immune systems, hearts and skin, as well as kids’ emotional well-being and learning skills.
National Wildlife Federation (NWF) created the Be Out There movement to give back to American children what they don’t even know they have lost: their connection to the natural world. In the process, NWF aims to help reverse alarming health trends and help families raise happier, healthier children. Signs everywhere show the spirit of the movement taking hold.
For more information, go to www.beoutthere.org/join
Offering sufficient outdoor time improves the overall health of our children while lengthening attention spans, diminishing aggressiveness, improving test scores and ultimately advancing learning. This guide addresses those concerns.
National Wildlife Federation (NWF) created the Be Out There movement to give back to American children what they don’t even know they have lost: their connection to the natural world. In the process, NWF aims to help reverse alarming health trends and help families raise happier, healthier children. Signs everywhere show the spirit of the movement taking hold.
For more information, go to www.beoutthere.org/join
American kids are out of shape, tuned out and stressed out because they’re missing something essential to their health and development, unstructured time playing outdoors.
National Wildlife Federation (NWF) created the Be Out There movement to give back to American children what they don’t even know they have lost: their connection to the natural world. In the process, NWF aims to help reverse alarming health trends and help families raise happier, healthier children. Signs everywhere show the spirit of the movement taking hold.
For more information, go to www.beoutthere.org/join
Three Ways Nature and Outdoor Time Improve Your Child’s Sleep: A Guide for Parents and Caregivers.
National Wildlife Federation (NWF) created the Be Out There movement to give back to American children what they don’t even know they have lost: their connection to the natural world. In the process, NWF aims to help reverse alarming health trends and help families raise happier, healthier children. Signs everywhere show the spirit of the movement taking hold.
For more information, go to www.beoutthere.org/join
Be Out There takes an in-depth look at how to balance screen time with green time in the report, Friending Fresh Air: Connecting Kids to Nature in a Digital Age. Here, we offer insight on how to use technology you already love and still connect your kids to nature.
How Outdoor Education and Outdoor School Time Create High Performance Students.
In this report, we summarize the available studies on the role of outdoor learning programs and outdoor play time in furthering children’s overall education: improving their lifelong learning skills, prospects for career success and school test scores.
National Wildlife Federation (NWF) created the Be Out There movement to give back to American children what they don’t even know they have lost: their connection to the natural world. In the process, NWF aims to help reverse alarming health trends and help families raise happier, healthier children. Signs everywhere show the spirit of the movement taking hold.
For more information, go to www.beoutthere.org/join
Nature deficit has had profound impacts on our children’s mental and physical health. Over the past 20 years, time spent playing outdoors has been cut in half, but the childhood obesity rate has more than doubled and the adolescent obesity rate has tripled.
National Wildlife Federation (NWF) created the Be Out There movement to give back to American children what they don’t even know they have lost: their connection to the natural world. In the process, NWF aims to help reverse alarming health trends and help families raise happier, healthier children. Signs everywhere show the spirit of the movement taking hold.
For more information, go to www.beoutthere.org/join
Technology is now accessible in almost every part of the world and it has completely changed the way we interact with one another. Though we’ve made many great technological advances, studies have shown that screen time can have an impact on your child’s development.
Screen Time and the Young Child: Strategies for BalanceStaci Trekles
Presentation on screen time and strategies for balancing technology exposure with other learning activities for early learners. For the Early Childhood Education Conference at Purdue University North Central, April 26, 2014
Do Your Kids Spend More Time on Media Devices Than Getting Active?jane arellano
Afterschool.ae is the largest dedicated provider of quality on-site after school activities, programs, tutoring, summer camps, sports and child care services in United Arab Emirates
Understanding How 'Screen Time' Affects Learning Lisa Guernsey
Presented in parts with Faith Rogow at NAEYC 2013, the annual meeting for the National Association for the Education of Young Children, in Washington, DC on November 23, 2013.
According to a 2012 survey of 1000 parents commissioned by National Wildlife Federation (NWF), weather topped the list of barriers to getting kids outdoors. Sixty-one percent of those surveyed cited weather as most problematic, over concerns about strangers (38%), homework (31%), and a busy schedule (5%).
Parents protect their kids; it’s their job. So, it’s natural when the weather turns really nasty or dangerous to keep children inside. But, children are far more adaptable, resilient and hearty than we modern parents give them credit for. Two decades ago, kids routinely ran in the sprinkler to cool off on a sweltering day, made igloos when it snowed, splashed in puddles when it rained. How many do that now? Not many, statistics say. Modern children spend only minutes each day outside in unstructured activities.
Are you looking for an easy way to maintain good health in summers? This article will tell you about the 5 summer health tips that are essential for a healthy lifestyle.
Technology is now accessible in almost every part of the world and it has completely changed the way we interact with one another. Though we’ve made many great technological advances, studies have shown that screen time can have an impact on your child’s development.
Screen Time and the Young Child: Strategies for BalanceStaci Trekles
Presentation on screen time and strategies for balancing technology exposure with other learning activities for early learners. For the Early Childhood Education Conference at Purdue University North Central, April 26, 2014
Do Your Kids Spend More Time on Media Devices Than Getting Active?jane arellano
Afterschool.ae is the largest dedicated provider of quality on-site after school activities, programs, tutoring, summer camps, sports and child care services in United Arab Emirates
Understanding How 'Screen Time' Affects Learning Lisa Guernsey
Presented in parts with Faith Rogow at NAEYC 2013, the annual meeting for the National Association for the Education of Young Children, in Washington, DC on November 23, 2013.
According to a 2012 survey of 1000 parents commissioned by National Wildlife Federation (NWF), weather topped the list of barriers to getting kids outdoors. Sixty-one percent of those surveyed cited weather as most problematic, over concerns about strangers (38%), homework (31%), and a busy schedule (5%).
Parents protect their kids; it’s their job. So, it’s natural when the weather turns really nasty or dangerous to keep children inside. But, children are far more adaptable, resilient and hearty than we modern parents give them credit for. Two decades ago, kids routinely ran in the sprinkler to cool off on a sweltering day, made igloos when it snowed, splashed in puddles when it rained. How many do that now? Not many, statistics say. Modern children spend only minutes each day outside in unstructured activities.
Are you looking for an easy way to maintain good health in summers? This article will tell you about the 5 summer health tips that are essential for a healthy lifestyle.
Executive Summary:
Welcome to the ‘Quick tips and tricks’ on ‘knowledge sharing’. This presentation was sourced through research available online and through several consultations with Emergency personnel. Providing the ‘quick tips and tricks’ to assist parents and caregivers, the objective is provide an outline of the possible scenarios that can occur during any regular day and provide both ‘proactive’ and ‘reactive’ practical responses for discussion.
Rating: Non-Technical, wide audience
How to Keep Kids Cool in the Summer.docxJack Bryant
Summer is an exciting time, filled with family vacations and fun activities. But it can also be somewhat overwhelming. There are just so many things to plan and do — where we will go, how we will stay entertained, who will watch the kids while all this is going on. Thankfully there are some simple solutions to keeping our little ones cool, happy, and healthy in the summer!
9 Top Summer Safety Tips for Children.docxVigour360
According to the latest seasonal forecast by the India Meteorological Department (IMD), much of India is expected to experience higher than usual daytime and nighttime temperatures, along with occurrences of heatwaves during the April-May-June summer season.
As the summer heat intensifies across the Indian subcontinent, safeguarding the well-being of our children becomes paramount. With temperatures reaching alarming levels, it's crucial to equip ourselves with the necessary knowledge and precautions to shield our little ones from the adverse effects of the scorching heat. From ensuring adequate hydration to protecting against sunburns and heat-related ailments, here are nine summer safety tips tailored specifically for children, serving as a guide for parents to navigate summers with vigilance and care.
Summer Safety Tips for Children:
1. Stay Hydrated: Dehydration poses a significant threat to children's health during the relentless heat of summer. Encourage them to consume ample water and cooling beverages throughout the day, irrespective of thirst cues. Opting for homemade drinks over caffeinated and sugary alternatives is advisable, as they can lead to dehydration.
2. Sun Protection: Shielding delicate skin from the harsh rays of the sun is paramount. Before stepping outdoors, ensure children are adequately covered in sunscreen with a minimum SPF of 30. Reapplication every two hours is essential to maintain effective protection against harmful UV rays and minimize the risk of sunburns and long-term skin damage. Use prickly heat powder to prevent rashes dur to sweating.
3. Dress Appropriately: Dressing children in loose, lightweight clothing crafted from breathable fabrics like cotton facilitates sweat evaporation. It also aids in temperature regulation and keeping them cool. Additionally, wide-brimmed hats and goggles provides added protection against sunburns and eye damage.
4. Limit Outdoor Activities: During the peak hours of scorching heat, it's better to avoid strenuous outdoor activities. Scheduling physical activity for early mornings or late evenings, when temperatures are relatively cooler, is advisable. Moreover, ensuring children wear helmets during activities such as cycling, skating is imperative to prevent head injuries.
5. Practice Water Safety: While indulging in water-based activities kids’ safety is important. Close supervision during swimming sessions and ensuring the use of appropriate safety gear, such as life jackets, particularly during water sports or recreational swimming, is essential to prevent accidents.
6. Seek Shade: Staying indoors when the sun is at its peak helps avoid overexposure to harmful UV rays. Engaging children in indoor activities during the hottest part of the day and encouraging relaxation through activities like yoga or cool baths aids in combating the heat effectively.
7. Guard Against Insects: With the arrival of summer, there is a surge in insect activity, posing a potential threat to children
These ten tips will make sure that your newborn remains safe and healthy through the harsh season. If your newborn develops a cold, do schedule an appointment with the doctor at the earliest. At pregnancy period, careful to mother and unborn baby. For more information about pregnancy then visit this site.
Injury is the #1 killer of children and teens in the United States. In 2009, more than 9,000 youth age 0-19 died from unintentional injuries in the United States. Millions more children suffer injuries requiring treatment in the emergency department. Leading causes of child injury include motor vehicle crashes, suffocation, drowning, poisoning, fires, and falls.1 Child injury is predictable and preventable. It is also among the most under-recognized public health problems facing our country today.
Progress has been made in preventing child injury. Child injury death rates have decreased 29% in the last decade.2 Yet injury is still the leading cause of death for children and teens. More can be done to keep our children safe.
https://www.southfloridabounce.com/ | One of the biggest complaints that parents (and other ‘older’ members of the community) make about ‘kids these days’ is that they are rarely seen outdoors. Most of the blame is placed on the new technological distractions children have access to, such as gaming consoles, computers, TV, and smart phones. While there is some truth to this assumption, changing parental styles have also contributed to children spending most of their time indoors. In a bid to protect their children from crime, bad weather, diseases, and other concerns, fewer parents are willing to allow their children to play outdoors. However, this overprotectiveness is unfairly denying children important life experiences and is causing more harm than good in the long term.
For More Information on our rental equipment or to reserve your bounce rental today, visit our website at https://www.southfloridabounce.com/.
Connect with us on Social Media at: https://www.facebook.com/SouthFloridaBounce, https://twitter.com/SBounce, and https://plus.google.com/102602010368213075186/about
Canadian Adventure Camp is a North Ontario coed sleepover summer camp for kids located on a beautiful private island in the wilderness lakes region of Temagami. Founded in 1975, it provides acclaimed programs to children from around the world! Visit site: http://www.canadianadventurecamp.com/
Canadian Adventure Camp
15 Idleswift Drive
Thornhill, Ontario, L4J 1K9 Canada
info@canadianadventurecamp.com
Autumn is prime time to reevaluate your line-up of physical activity. For most of us, this change in season can have a big
impact on how and when we get moving. And while the weather is often absolutely perfect for outdoor activity, shorter days
mean there’s less usable time to make it happen, and many people begin battling lack of energy. Here are some tips to help
use these beautiful fall months to boost energy, connect with nature and gain momentum going into the holiday season.
Accidents are the main cause of injury and even death in children. People only relate accidents to traffic accident or accidents in outdoor activities. However, as a matter of fact, the place where people regard as the safest place–home–hides many “hazards” The main cause of home accident is general negligence of safety at home.
Child vehicular heat stroke is one among the leading causes of death among children around the globe. It is unfortunate to know that even great and responsible parents can forget children in the back seats.
Ten Summer Safety Tips for the Elderly When Going Outdoor | Home Care Assista...AaronDyer1
Seniors really struggle when they go outside in the summer for some kinda fun or activity. To deal with this stress, Home Care Assistance of Phoenix has shared 10 valuable tips, which seniors can consider when they go outdoor in summer. To know about our caregiving services, Visit us: www.homecareassistancephoenix.com
Harnessing nature to protect our communities.
"Natural Defenses in Action" highlights the important role that natural and nature-based approaches can play in reducing the mounting risks to our communities from weather and climate-related natural hazards. The report highlights how properly managed ecosystems and well-designed policies can help reduce disaster risk in ways that are good for both people and nature. "Natural Defenses in Action" profiles a dozen case studies that highlight best-in-class examples of how natural defenses are being put to use to avoid or reduce risks from flooding, coastal storms, erosion, and wildfire. It illustrates that harnessing nature to protect people and property is not just a good idea—it already is being done across the country!
A new report from the National Wildlife Federation looks at how 20 species that depend on a healthy Gulf are faring in the wake of the BP oil spill. The full extent of the spill’s impacts may take years or even decades to unfold, but Five Years & Counting: Gulf Wildlife in the Aftermath of the Deepwater Horizon Disaster examines what the science tells us so far.
Climate change already is having significant impacts on the nation’s species and ecosystems, and these effects are projected to increase considerably over time. As a result, climate change is now a primary lens through which conservation and natural resource management must be viewed. How should we prepare for and respond to the impacts of climate change on wildlife and their habitats? What should we be doing differently in light of these climatic shifts, and what actions continue to make sense? Climate-Smart Conservation: Putting Adaptation Principles into Practice offers guidance for designing and carrying out conservation in the face of a rapidly changing climate.
Addressing the growing threats brought about or accentuated by rapid climate change requires a fundamental shift in the practice of natural resource management and conservation. Traditionally, conservationists have focused their efforts on protecting and managing systems to maintain their current state, or to restore degraded systems back to a historical state regarded as more desirable. Conservation planners and practitioners will need to adopt forward-looking goals and implement strategies specifically designed to prepare for and adjust to current and future climatic changes, and the associated impacts on natural systems and human communities—an emerging discipline known as climate change adaptation.
The field of climate change adaptation is still in its infancy. Although there is increasing attention focused on the subject, much of the guidance developed to date has been general in nature, concentrating on high-level principles rather than specific actions. It is against this backdrop that this guide was prepared as a means for helping put adaptation principles into practice, and for moving adaptation from planning to action.
MAKING CONSERVATION CLIMATE SMART
The fate of our wildlife and wild places depends on steps we take now to prepare for and cope with the growing impacts of a changing climate. While managers traditionally have looked to the past for inspiration, increasingly we will be faced with future conditions that may have no historical analogs.
Although climate adaptation will have costs, the cost of inaction—through continuing with business as usual—is likely to be far higher. Furthermore, the sooner we begin the task of planning for a climate-altered future and taking meaningful adaptation action, the more successful these efforts ultimately will be. It is imperative that natural resource managers begin to act now to prepare for and manage these changes, in order to provide the best chance for cherished conservation values to endure. Putting climate-smart conservation into practice can make a difference for sustaining our nation’s diverse species and ecosystems well into the future. Indeed, protecting our rich conservation legacy depends on our rising to this challenge.
This National Wildlife Federation report details how 14 Gulf wildlife species are faring in the wake of BP's 2010 Deepwater Horizon oil disaster in the Gulf. Since the tragedy, NWF has closely monitored the harm done to wildlife and important habitats in the Gulf and along the coast. Though the full impacts of the oil spill remain unknown, this summarizes what we know so far, and what restoration still needs to be done. http://www.nwf.org/fouryearslater
Synthetic Fiber Construction in lab .pptxPavel ( NSTU)
Synthetic fiber production is a fascinating and complex field that blends chemistry, engineering, and environmental science. By understanding these aspects, students can gain a comprehensive view of synthetic fiber production, its impact on society and the environment, and the potential for future innovations. Synthetic fibers play a crucial role in modern society, impacting various aspects of daily life, industry, and the environment. ynthetic fibers are integral to modern life, offering a range of benefits from cost-effectiveness and versatility to innovative applications and performance characteristics. While they pose environmental challenges, ongoing research and development aim to create more sustainable and eco-friendly alternatives. Understanding the importance of synthetic fibers helps in appreciating their role in the economy, industry, and daily life, while also emphasizing the need for sustainable practices and innovation.
Read| The latest issue of The Challenger is here! We are thrilled to announce that our school paper has qualified for the NATIONAL SCHOOLS PRESS CONFERENCE (NSPC) 2024. Thank you for your unwavering support and trust. Dive into the stories that made us stand out!
Executive Directors Chat Leveraging AI for Diversity, Equity, and InclusionTechSoup
Let’s explore the intersection of technology and equity in the final session of our DEI series. Discover how AI tools, like ChatGPT, can be used to support and enhance your nonprofit's DEI initiatives. Participants will gain insights into practical AI applications and get tips for leveraging technology to advance their DEI goals.
2024.06.01 Introducing a competency framework for languag learning materials ...Sandy Millin
http://sandymillin.wordpress.com/iateflwebinar2024
Published classroom materials form the basis of syllabuses, drive teacher professional development, and have a potentially huge influence on learners, teachers and education systems. All teachers also create their own materials, whether a few sentences on a blackboard, a highly-structured fully-realised online course, or anything in between. Despite this, the knowledge and skills needed to create effective language learning materials are rarely part of teacher training, and are mostly learnt by trial and error.
Knowledge and skills frameworks, generally called competency frameworks, for ELT teachers, trainers and managers have existed for a few years now. However, until I created one for my MA dissertation, there wasn’t one drawing together what we need to know and do to be able to effectively produce language learning materials.
This webinar will introduce you to my framework, highlighting the key competencies I identified from my research. It will also show how anybody involved in language teaching (any language, not just English!), teacher training, managing schools or developing language learning materials can benefit from using the framework.
Operation “Blue Star” is the only event in the history of Independent India where the state went into war with its own people. Even after about 40 years it is not clear if it was culmination of states anger over people of the region, a political game of power or start of dictatorial chapter in the democratic setup.
The people of Punjab felt alienated from main stream due to denial of their just demands during a long democratic struggle since independence. As it happen all over the word, it led to militant struggle with great loss of lives of military, police and civilian personnel. Killing of Indira Gandhi and massacre of innocent Sikhs in Delhi and other India cities was also associated with this movement.
Safalta Digital marketing institute in Noida, provide complete applications that encompass a huge range of virtual advertising and marketing additives, which includes search engine optimization, virtual communication advertising, pay-per-click on marketing, content material advertising, internet analytics, and greater. These university courses are designed for students who possess a comprehensive understanding of virtual marketing strategies and attributes.Safalta Digital Marketing Institute in Noida is a first choice for young individuals or students who are looking to start their careers in the field of digital advertising. The institute gives specialized courses designed and certification.
for beginners, providing thorough training in areas such as SEO, digital communication marketing, and PPC training in Noida. After finishing the program, students receive the certifications recognised by top different universitie, setting a strong foundation for a successful career in digital marketing.
2. All the Fuss About The Weather
“Think we’ll get snow this winter?”
“It’s raining cats and dogs out there!”
“Hot enough for ya?”
The weather: it’s what we talk about when there’s nothing else to say. But weather is more important than we
think. Far from just a polite conversation starter, weather is preventing American kids from doing an activity that is
no-cost, really good for them and right outside their doors: spending daily time outside.
According to a 2012 survey of 1000 parents commissioned by National Wildlife Federation (NWF), weather topped the
list of barriers to getting kids outdoors. Sixty-one percent of those surveyed cited weather as most problematic, over
concerns about strangers (38%), homework (31%), and a busy schedule (5%).
Parents protect their kids; it’s their job. So, it’s natural when the weather turns really nasty or dangerous to keep
children inside. But, children are far more adaptable, resilient and hearty than we modern parents give them credit
for. Two decades ago, kids routinely ran in the sprinkler to cool off on a sweltering day, made igloos when it snowed,
splashed in puddles when it rained. How many do that now? Not many, statistics say. Modern children spend only
minutes each day outside in unstructured activities.
They spend most of their time,
seven hours per day on average,
away from the elements entirely,
in front of some kind of electronic
screen. 1,2,3
Less than ideal weather—too
cold, too damp, too hot—can
quickly put a damper on outdoor
play for today’s moms and dads.
A drizzly Monday can mean
carpooling to school rather than
walking. Temperatures below
40 degrees and over 80 give us
pause. But is all of this caution
really necessary? Weather is,
by nature, changeable. As the
climate continues to warm, this is
ever more the case, with greater
extremes at both ends of the
thermometer. But barring truly
threatening conditions such as
poor air, flooding and storms,
children are safe to play outside
in most kinds of weather.
2
3. In addition, being outside is life insurance
for the environment. Studies have shown that
kids who play outdoors when they’re young
grow up to be more conservation-minded. So,
as adults, they care more about the wild things
and places they’ve come to know and love as
kids—and will work to preserve them for future
generations.
When kids are kept unnecessarily indoors due
to imperfect conditions, we “protect them”
from something crucial to their health and
well-being. As kids spend less and less time
outside, it’s clear that staying indoors is far
more risky than going out. Today, one-third
of children and adolescents are overweight
or obese; 5.4 million U.S. kids are currently
diagnosed with ADHD, with a 22% increase
between 2003 and 2007 alone; 7.6 million U.S.
children are vitamin D deficient, and the use of
antidepressants in pediatric patients has risen sharply.5-8
But outdoor activities kids love, like running, jumping, climbing, playing games with friends and taking nature
walks are a great strategy for keeping children healthy, physically, mentally and even academically. Kids who play
outdoors maintain healthier body weights, are less likely to be near-sighted and have healthier vitamin D levels.
In addition, “green time” enhances empathy, lengthens attention spans and improves critical thinking skills.9-13
In this report, we’ll address for parents their concerns about inclement weather and provide information they
need to take kids out with confidence.
YOUR WEATHER REPORT:
Feel Confident Outdoors, No Matter the Forecast
Don’t Rain on My Parade . . . . . . . .Pg 4
When it comes to outdoor play, wet can be wonderful
Feeling Hot, Hot, Hot . . . . . . . . . . . .Pg 6
Keeping kids safe, happy and comfortable all summer
Baby, It’s Cold Outside . . . . . . . . . . .Pg 8
Don’t let frosty temperataures leave you cold
3
4. Don’t Rain on My Parade
When it comes to outdoor play,
wet can be wonderful
Parents of young children often keep a running list of
“rainy day activities,” crafts or games to do indoors when
forecast is soggy. How many include playing outside on
that list? For those who don’t, perhaps worries about wet
weather making kids sick or getting caught in a storm—or
even messing up the carpets—figure in. But if your kids have
never dodged rain drops, jumped in a puddle or sang in the
rain, they’re missing out on something wonderful.
Rain can sometimes be blamed for causing children to
catch colds or flu, particularly when kids’ hair or feet get
wet. The fact is, rain cannot make you sick.14 While getting
wet may be inconvenient, dressing children in waterproof
hats and boots and raincoats can protect kids from getting
too soggy. Pick cheerful rain gear with cartoon characters
or bright colors. This will help children want to don their
slickers and get outdoors to play. Returning to a warm cup
of cocoa helps, too.
Pick
cheerful,
rain gear with cartoon
characters or bright colors.
Returning to a warm cup of
cocoa helps, too.
In spring and summer, rain can bring along its less hospitable and more dangerous cousins, thunder and lightning.
When storms pop up, extra care is necessary.
To stay safe during a storm:
• Get out of the pool, lake, ocean, or any body of water.
Water conducts electricity, meaning that electricity can
travel through water.
• If you’re outside, seek shelter in a house or building. If
there’s no house or building, wait out the storm in a car.
• If you’re outside and can’t get inside, don’t stand under
or near large objects, like tall trees. Lightning is more
likely to hit something tall.
• Plan ahead. Talk with your kids about what to do if
you get caught in a storm. Also be aware of the weather
forecast when you’ll be outdoors, such as on a camping
trip. Then you’ll be ready with a plan for getting to shelter
if a storm blows up.15
4
5. Sometimes, however, the biggest obstacle to playing in the rain is not the fear
of getting sick or a storm on the horizon: it is mom and dad. When parents are busy
working and taking care of kids and a home, the last thing they want to deal with is
muddy tracks across the foyer or wet, ruined carpets.
With a little forethought, a mess can be avoided:
• When you’re heading out for some rainy fun, make sure you have a mat by the front door for wiping
feet when you return
• Have kids remove boots and any wet or muddy items as soon as they walk in the door
• Keep some old towels just inside for spills
• Should mud get on the carpet, experts say to let the mud dry completely before vacuuming to
ensure stain removal.16
5
6. Feeling Hot, Hot, Hot
Keeping kids safe, happy and
comfortable all summer
Summertime
and the outdoor living is easy, right? Not so fast. “Global warming is bringing more frequent
and severe heat waves to much of the country,” says Dr. Amanda Staudt, NWF climate scientist. With extreme
heat comes increasing risks of heat-related health problems such as heat stroke and sunburn, as well as
worsening asthma and allergies—all of which could make for a less than ideal summer vacation. But, summer is
the ideal time to spend time outdoors. Kids are free of the pressures of school and homework and ready to take
in all nature has to offer. By getting educated, planning ahead and being prepared, you can make the most of
your kids’ two-month break and spend time enjoying the season.
How hot is too hot?
With summer
temperatures reaching 90 degrees and triple digits
starting in late May or early June in some parts of
the country, how do you know if it’s safe to take
kids outdoors to play? According to Dr. Melinda
Bossenmeyer, “Kids absorb more heat than adults,
while sweating less. The result is kids have a greater
propensity for heat cramps, heat exhaustion and
heat stroke.”24 On a day where a high in the 80’s
is expected, making sure you have sunscreen and
water along for the fun are great tips. But as the
mercury rises further, it’s important to check the
weather report. In addition to forecasting high and
low temperatures for the day, many also forecast
heat index, pollen count air quality. Knowing what to
expect can help you know when it’s probably better
to stay in and take steps when you do venture out.
Of course, swimming in a pool is a wonderful way to beat the heat,
as is playing in a sprinkler. The Center for Disease Control (CDC) also
recommends the following tips to prevent heat-related illness:17
• Drink plenty of water, and if kids are very active and sweating heavily,
replace minerals and salts with kid-friendly sports drinks.
• Schedule your children’s outdoor time in the coolest parts of the day,
early in the morning and later in the afternoon.
• Dress kids in lightweight, light-colored, loose-fitting clothing.
• NEVER leave a child (or pet) in a closed, parked vehicle.
• Give kids a cool shower or bath after returning indoors.
6
7. And don’t
forget the
sunscreen!
Apply about a shot glass full of sunscreen to all exposed areas before going out.
The health benefits for kids playing outdoors are numerous—from lower body weights, to better eyesight and
emotional well-being but it’s important to be safe. As much as 80 percent of a person’s lifetime exposure to skindamaging ultraviolet rays occurs by age 18. Multiple studies have shown that the more youngsters are exposed
to the sun early in life, especially if they suffer serious sunburns, the greater the risk of later developing both
superficial skin cancers and deadly melanomas. Sadly, the issue of sun protection is all the more important these
days because the thinning of the ozone layer has rendered everyone more susceptible to skin-damaging solar
radiation. Experts say to apply about a shot glass full of sunscreen to all exposed areas before going out and
insisting infants and children wear a hat.18 The American Melanoma Foundation recommends a broad-spectrum,
waterproof or water-resistant sun block with a minimum of 15 SPF.
From April to October, in many areas, seasonal allergies are another challenge for parents to contend with in
regard to outdoor play. When pollen counts are high, kids with hay fever may experience itchy-watery eyes,
scratchy throats and sneezing. Experts say, in addition to any allergy medications recommended by your
pediatrician, there are steps you can take to help allergic kids enjoy the outdoors:
1. Choose the right time of day to play may go a long way toward mitigating flare-ups, as pollen counts are lower
in the early morning and evening.
2. Get kids some cool shades or sunglasses will prevent allergens from entering their eyes.
3. Have them shower and wash their hair once they come back in.18
7
8. Baby It’s Cold Outside
Don’t let frosty temperatures leave you cold
“Kids should get at least 60 minutes of exercise every day, and it’s great if they
can do so outside for the fresh air and more room to play.”
Dr. Jennifer Shu
Despite their own winter wonderland memories, contemporary moms and dads can be reluctant to send kids
outside when temperatures drop. Myths about cold and illness, concerns about safety and preparedness, and
ignorance of the mental and physical health benefits to year-round outdoor play combine to make moms and
dads think twice about braving the elements.
Take the commonly-held belief that spending time in the cold can give you one. Is there evidence spending time
outside in the winter will make your child sick? According to the experts, no, because cold air does not cause
colds, viruses do. In fact, staying indoors where germs are more likely to catch up with you may be a bigger
problem.19
“Kids should get at least 60 minutes of exercise every day, and it’s great if they can do so outside for the fresh
air and more room to play,” says Dr Jennifer Shu, a pediatrician and author of Heading Home with Your Newborn.
“You can’t catch a cold from simply being in the cold.”
Playing outside in the winter does have its health risks, however. Having appropriate cold-weather gear is crucial.
Dressing for Winter
• The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP)
urges dressing infants and children in several
thin layers to keep them dry and warm.
• Don’t forget a warm coat, boots, gloves or
mittens, and a hat.
• In addition, setting reasonable time limits on
outdoor play and having children come inside
periodically to warm up will help prevent
hypothermia and frostbite.
• AAP also reminds parents to coat kids’ faces
with sunscreen, as sunlight, especially reflecting
off snow, can cause burns.22
“Be sure to bundle up and limit exposure to as few as 20 or 30 minutes for little kids if it’s [below
freezing], and make sure they warm up and change into dry clothing if necessary when they come in,”
says Dr. Shu. 23
8
9. When days get short and cold in parts of the country, especially the northeast, getting a daily dose of the
outdoors may be an important, all-natural prescription for kids’ mental health. Some kids and teens,
like some adults, are more susceptible to Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), also known as “the winter blues.”
According to family psychologist Dr. Susan Bartell, SAD symptoms may include crankiness, sleeping more than
usual and difficulty concentrating, among others. The good news is spending time outdoors can help.24
“Get outside as much as possible during the winter months to be sure kids get plenty of sunlight,” says
educational psychologist Dr. Mary Johnson-Gerard.
She suggests organizing winter theme walks to collect rocks or twigs; going sledding on plastic trays; or
organizing a winter track meet with activities such as jumping backward the farthest, running sideways or
blowing bubbles.25
“Be sure to bundle up and
limit exposure to as few
as 20 or 30 minutes for
little kids if it’s below
freezing.
Dr. Jennifer Shu
9
10. Don’t Be a Fair-Weather Friend to Nature
The Forecast Calls for Play!
Spending time outside is great for kids, with benefits to their mental and physical health hard to get anywhere
else. They need time outdoors to be healthy and happy. But nature needs our kids as much as our kids need
nature: if they don’t learn to love and appreciate it while they’re young, who will ensure it will be there for them,
and future generations, when they grow up? When we stay indoors because we don’t want our kids to brave
a few snowflakes—or we don’t want to—we are doing a disservice not only to them and ourselves, but to the
environment.
It’s time to make like postal carriers and be outside in all kinds of weather.
For more wonderful
outdoor activities visit:
www.BeOutThere.org
10
11. Sources
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Rideout, Victoria et al. (2010). “Generation M: Media in the Lives of 8-18 Year-Olds,” The Henry J. Kaiser Family Foundation. http://www.
kff.org/entmedia/entmedia030905pkg.cfm
Chawla, L. (2007) “Childhood experiences associated with care for the natural world.” Children, Youth and Environments 17 (4) : 144-170
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CDC’s National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion. Division of Adolescent and School Health. Childhood Obesity. 20 Oct. 2008. http://www.cdc.gov/HealthyYouth/obesity
Sax, Leonard, “Ritalin - Better Living Through Chemistry?” The World and I. Nov. 1, 2000
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American Academy of Pediatrics. “Many Children have Suboptimal Vitamin D Levels.” October, 2009. Pediatrics. http:///www.aap.org/
advocacy/releases/oct2609studies/htm
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commercially insured pediatric patients, 1998-2002.” Psychiatric Services. 55(4):387-391
“Outdoor time may protect kids from nearsightedness.” Reuters. Optometry and Vision Science, Jan. 2009
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American Academy of Pediatrics. “Many Children have Suboptimal Vitamin D Levels.” October, 2009. Pediatrics. http:///www.aap.org/
advocacy/releases/oct2609studies/htm
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Weinstein, N., Przybylski, A. K., & Ryan, R. M. (2009). “Can nature make us more caring? Effects of immersion in nature on intrinsic aspirations and generosity.” Personality and Social Psychology Bulletin, 35, 1315-1329
Kuo, PhD, Frances E., and Andrea Faber Taylor, PhD. “A Potential Natural Treatment for Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder: Evidence
From a National Study.” American Journal of Public Health 94.9. Sept. 2004
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Ernst, Julie (Athman) and Martha Monroe. “The effects of environment-based education on students’ critical thinking skills and disposition toward critical thinking.” 10.4 Environmental Education Research, Nov. 2004
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Rush, J. mcdlifeciences.com. http://www.mcdlifesciences.com/why-can-rain-make-us-sick/.html
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CDC, www.bt.cdc.gov/disasters/extremeheat/heat_guide
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Brody, Jan. nytimes.com, June, 2012. Slathering on Sunscreen Early and Often. http://well.blogs.nytimes.com/2012/06/04/slathering-onsunscreen-early-and-often/
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Shaw, Gina. Webmd.com http://www.webmd.com/allergies/features/5-ways-to-beat-spring-allergies
20
Pope, Tara Parker. nytimes.com. June, 2009 http://well.blogs.nytimes.com/2009/06/29/11-health-myths-that-may-surprise-you/
21
AAP, January 2013. http://www.healthychildren.org/English/tips-tools/newsletters/Documents/HCNewsletter_Jan2013_WinterWeather.
htm
22
Shu, Jennifer http://www.ivillage.com/how-cold-too-cold-recess/6-a-316650
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AAP, January 2013 http://www.healthychildren.org/English/health-issues/conditions/emotional-problems/pages/Winter-Blues-SeasonalAffective-Disorder-and-Depression.aspx
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Gerard, Mary Johnson. http://www.ehow.com/how_8457441_beating-winter-blues-kids.html
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