National News
President Urges Americans to GO OUTSIDE!
In a press release issued June 1, President Obama encouraged Americans of all ages to explore the outdoors, and stated that his administration is working to connect youth with nature "as a classroom for environmental education". He also announces a Department of the Interior program which "invites families and friends to teach children about the joys and wonders of the outdoors". Read the full release...
School Garden on the White House Lawn!
Surely everyone has heard by now that Michelle Obama has engaged twenty-three fifth graders from the Bancroft Elementary School in Washington to help her create a 1,100 square foot vegetable garden at the White House. In addition to planting the garden, these students will also help harvest and cook the fruits and vegetables they grow. In her comments about the new garden, Mrs. Obama acknowledged the important role that community gardens play for urban dwellers who have no backyards. Here in Greater Cincinnati, we are blessed with many community gardens and the promise of more to come with Councilman David Crowley's initiative to convert vacant lots to community gardens. There is also a groundswell of interest in school gardens and natural play spaces - more on that in future updates!
Perhaps you missed these stories that might help in tough economic times!
Looking for some good news in amid the gloom and doom? Read Richard Louv's blog on Nature's Economic Stimulus Package:
Click here »
Parents: Are you looking for ways to cut back on the toy budget in 2009? No problem! The latest toy to be added to the National Toy Hall of Fame is?... the STICK!
Stick Inducted into Toy Hall of Fame »
Are you concerned about what elevated stress levels might do to your health in 2009? Spend more time outside!
Study Finds Access to Nature Improves Health »
U.S. House of Representatives Passes
No Child Left Inside Act
The No Child Left Inside Act passed the U.S. House of Representatives on September 19, 2008 with a vote of 293 in favor, 109 against and 31 not voting. The act, sponsored by U.S. Rep. John Sarbanes and others, was inspired by Richard Louv's book, Last Child in the Woods: Saving Our Children from Nature-Deficit Disorder. It provides funding for training teachers in environmental education and for expanding environmental education programs. Click here for more information on this bill and how you can help.
More Information »
