Take A Child Outside Week is September 24–30, 2023, and was founded to help connect children with nature. The goal is to increase the number of children who experience nature by celebrating opportunities for children to play outside, highlighting locations that offer places to explore the outdoors and providing simple activities that anyone can do. The key to a healthy planet is illuminating the natural world and inspiring conservation.
Benefits of going outside:
Supports creativity and problem-solving
Improves eyesight
Enhances cognitive abilities
Improves academic performance
Improves nutrition
Increases one’s connection with nature
Improves social relations
Reduces stress and anxiety
Reduces Attention Deficit (ADD) symptoms
Improves self-discipline
Increases physical activity
It may take some creative thinking to get your child outside. If you engage them in their interests, you will be able to get them outside without “dragging” them. Think about what your kids like to do and what different things interest them.
For example, you can go out and do a certain sport with them if they are into it. You might be able to find outdoor locations that are similar to those in their books, or you could read outside at a park if they like reading. Take advantage of the natural world as an artistic inspiration if they like to draw or create.
Your kids will want to go outside more if you play with them and spend time with them. Engage with them and show them how beautiful and fun being out in nature can be!
Local community events to take your kids outside to:
Fall Wildflower/Butterfly Walk
Date: Friday, September 29, 2023
Time: 10:00 am – 11:30 am
Location: Dade Battlefield Historic State Park, 7200 Co Rd 603, Bushnell, FL 33513
Description: Fall wildflowers and butterflies are typically at their peak in Central Florida in the fall. Join a park ranger as we walk the park’s trails and look for both wildflowers and butterflies. The cost is $3/vehicle (or a Florida State Parks Annual Pass). Bring a hat, sunscreen, water and insect repellent.
Night Hike
Date: Friday, September 29, 2023
Time: 7:00 pm – 9:00 pm
Location: Chinsegut Conservation Center Chinsegut Conservation Center, 23212 Lake Lindsey Rd., Brooksville, FL
Description: Join us for a family-friendly evening of nocturnal exploration at Chinsegut WEA! We’ll start at the conservation center with an introduction to Chinsegut, and once the sun sets, we’ll watch the bats leave the bat boxes. After watching the bats emerge, we’ll journey to May’s Prairie, where we’ll listen to the sounds of the night from the boardwalk. All the while, we’ll be on the lookout for nocturnal creatures using a small selection of specialized flashlights provided by the center. The hike is moderate, over uneven terrain and unpaved trails in the dark. A limited number of infrared flashlights will be available for participants to use. Bug spray is recommended. An adult must be present with all children. Spots are limited and registration is required at the link below
https://outreach.myfwc.com/events/EventDetails.aspx?id=1778911&group=
To view some parks & preserves within the county and what amenities they offer, go to https://www.hernandocounty.us/departments/departments-n-z/parks-and-recreation/park-preserve.
