Winter 2007-08 Update

Feburary, 2008

We are happy to report that Leave No Child Inside has indeed become the "movement" that we envisioned � not just locally, but nationally. The Children & Nature Network website lists more than 35 regions in the country with Leave No Child Inside campaigns.

We are beginning to see the fruits of our efforts, as well as the efforts of others in health, education, child services and government who understand the importance of nature to healthy childhood development. Here is a sampling of what is on our horizon in the coming year:

  • Local schools are looking at creating natural learning and play areas on school grounds.
  • Discussions are underway here and across Ohio to arrive at solutions which will allow children to once again walk and bike safely to schools. (see www.foryourhealthohio.org).
  • We have added a section to the website to include information on area bike and hiking trails. There are several governmental agencies working to compile a more comprehensive list, but until that data is released, you can find a list here!
  • Greater Cincinnati nature organizations have agreed to form a collaborative which will allow them to create a "one stop shop" for information on venues and programs of all kinds, for children and adults. Grant writing is underway to provide staffing and website design for that initiative. This will greatly improve community access to information and will allow participating groups to operate more efficiently.
  • A mini forum will be held to engage those of you who have asked to "Get Involved" via our website. A larger forum is in the planning stages for later in the year which will engage the community as a whole.
  • We are creating a Power Point presentation and speakers bureau to accommodate requests from community groups.
  • The Cincinnati Flower Show will highlight Leave No Child Inside the weekend of April 26, when Richard Louv will be a guest lecturer and a Small Wonders Tent will feature creative outdoor activities for children.
  • We are partnering with the Collaborative to Prevent Childhood Obesity on an exciting event for the summer 2009. During this multi-week event, families will participate in a game that will take them through many of our area's natural venues. Our planning team includes representatives from BeechAcres, Boy Scouts, Cincinnati Museum Center, Cincinnati Park Board, Cincinnati Recreation Commission, Community Action Agency, Girl Scouts, Hamilton County Park District, Imago, Nutrition Council, Paddlefest and the YMCA.

We are also in the process of redesigning our website to show examples of how others in the community are shaping our children's futures. Each and every one of you has the ability to help return our children to the safe, natural world they deserve. It could be as simple as telling your neighbors or your family members about how important nature is to healthy childhood development. Or, it could be encouraging your school, your employer or government officials support initiatives which encourage outdoor play. Together, we can make our children happier, healthier and smarter!

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