In an effort to reconnect children and nature, this movement exists worldwide to support people and other organizations. Based in the United States, the Children & Nature Network hopes to foster a world where kids everywhere can play, learn and grow outdoors.
The Children and Nature Network also lists many statistics that back their initiatives. For example, kids spend more than 50 hours per week on an electronic device. They also spend more than 90% of their time inside. This is likely linked to the increased rate of childhood obesity, which has grown from 7% in 1980 to 18% in 2012. Pre-school aged children are also the quickest growing market when it comes to anti-depressants.
To make a change, the network advocates for nature-rich cities, active outdoor families, green schoolyards, "nature-smart" leaders and natural libraries.
What's Driving This Trend
- Nature Play
- Opportunities for developing outdoor playgrounds and play equipment for children.
- Nature Education Programs
- Opportunities for developing educational curriculums and activities based on nature for schools and other institutions.
- Outdoorsy Experiences
- Opportunities for developing tourism businesses that promote outdoor activities for families with children.
Who This Affects Most
- Playground Equipment
- The playground equipment industry can capitalize on the rise of the nature play movement by developing more natural outdoor play structures.
- Education
- The education industry can develop programs and materials that encourage outdoor learning and exploration.
- Tourism
- The tourism industry can develop family-friendly outdoor experiences that promote exploration and discovery of nature for children and parents.
