Connecting Young Children with Nature

07/21/2005

Connecting Young Children with Nature

“Those who contemplate the beauty of the earth find reserves of strength that will endure as long as life lasts.”
Rachel Carson

In his newly released book, Last Child in the Woods: Saving Our Children from Nature-Deficit Disorder (New York: Algonquin Books, 2005), author Richard Louv makes a passionate and well-researched case for the importance of nature play in children's physical, emotional, cognitive and spiritual development. He states: "If, as a growing body of evidence recommends, 'contact with nature is as important to children as good nutrition and adequate sleep, then current trends in children's access to nature need to be addressed.'"

To give parents quick and simple advice on everyday ways to connect city or country children with nature, check out "Parenting Exchange on CD Collection #4: Nature Connections and Pets" by Karen Stephens. Go to https://secure.ccie.com/catalog/cciecatalog.php?cPath=53

For more information about Exchange's magazine, books, and other products pertaining to ECE, go to www.ccie.com.