Round Up

As climate change continues to impact communities globally, many young people face increasing eco-anxiety and distress, leading to sleeplessness, grief, an inability to focus and worse. Experts have identified a range of strategies to build resilience and help manage emotions, including being active in your community, seeking positivity and modeling sustainable behaviors. “A lot of times, the anxiety and the hopelessness comes from a feeling of powerlessness. And I don’t think any of us is powerless,” reflected climate scientist Kate Marvel. “I think collectively, we’re incredibly powerful.” The Washington Post.

Last year, Colorado became the second state, following Washington, to approve state licenses for outdoor preschools. Advocates of the new law hoped it would expand access to nature-based early learning — including allowing low-income families to get up to 30 free hours at outdoor preschools. As part of the new law, Colorado proposed rules to govern outdoor preschools, but advocates with the Colorado Collective for Nature-Based Early Education say the new rules are too restrictive and will make it difficult for outdoor preschools to function. CPR News.

In New York, fish guts are fueling environmental stewardship. Through the Science Research Mentoring Program at the American Museum of Natural History, high school juniors and seniors work alongside scientists on real research. At one school, students support an ichthyologist (fish scientist) by dissecting fish to study microplastics. “I have totally fallen in love with science,” one participant said, who now dreams of using her new skills to fight climate change. “[Climate change] is the biggest problem faced by our generation … It’s everyone’s responsibility to do what they can to fight it.” The Hechinger Report.

After decades of activism resulting in the removal of four major dams, the Klamath River now flows freely from Oregon to the coast of northern California. A group of mostly Indigenous youth, ages 13 to 20, now plan to kayak the more than 300-mile route from headwaters to coast — a journey not possible for the past 100 years. They will paddle through the ancient territory and homelands of their tribes — the Klamath, Shasta, Karuk, Hoopa Valley and Yurok among them. Many participants trained for this moment through summer white-water kayaking programs and tribe-led classes on activism, ecosystems, and cultural knowledge. “We have an opportunity to redefine what our relationship to the river is,” said John Acuna, a member of the Hoopa Valley tribe and expedition leader. The New York Times.

New research from Oregon State University suggests that outdoor spaces are not luxuries, but rather essential public health infrastructure. Researchers analyzed over 500 adults’ behavior and well-being during the COVID-19 pandemic and found that the mental health benefits of outdoor recreation were “significant and measurable.” A reduction in outdoor recreation among respondents was directly associated with an increase in stress and depressive symptoms, while more frequent outdoor recreation predicted better well-being. “Outdoor recreation emerged as an important protective factor for mental health during the crisis,” reported lab director Xiangyou “Sharon” Shen. OregonLive.

Amid busy Cleveland, Ohio, Trey Williams founded Hood Honey, a thriving urban apiary and farm. What started off as just two hobby hives in his neighbor’s garden has grown, and Williams now has five sites across farms, cemeteries and gardens. His ultimate vision? A network of urban farms that tackles food insecurity, creates Black economic growth, builds community and creates opportunities for families and youth. Currently, Hood Honey is working on adding bee beds and pollinator gardens in residential areas to connect with residents interested in gardening and provide them with free native plants to grow — supporting not just Hood Honey’s bees but also the vital native bee populations. The Land.

How do you talk to young people about living sustainably and caring for the planet? The answer is a tricky balance between acknowledging our environmental reality while recognizing the resilience of both humans and the rest of the natural world. Experts advise that it’s important for adults to recognize the size and scariness of the issues, and let kids feel anger, sadness and fear. However, it’s also helpful (and healing) to take positive action, and education, open-minded conversation, and time outdoors are good places to start. As filmmaker Damon Gameau says, “There’s something beautiful about the human spirit, particularly when its back is against the wall and innovation and creativity get unleashed. We’re capable of doing extraordinary and wonderful things.” The Guardian.

For 19-year-old Zack Sporte, beekeeping bloomed from a backyard hobby into a vocation. As a child, Sporte spent his free time exploring the woods, drawn to outdoor and hands-on learning. This curiosity led him to tap maple trees for syrup at age 10 and start beekeeping at 12. Now, he runs a small honey business and advocates for pollinator health and environmental sustainability. “If you’re passionate about something, don’t give up, even when it gets hard,” Sporte advises. “And please limit the use of pesticides or herbicides. They harm the bees.” Rapid Growth.

In late April, nearly $400 million in AmeriCorps grants was terminated, cutting the agency’s grant funding by more than 41% and affecting more than 30,000 AmeriCorps members, many of whom are young people and teens. The impacts of these federal cuts continue to ripple through environmental and conservation programs across the U.S. In rural areas of the Midwest, environmental conservation comprises a patchwork of small nature preserves, with AmeriCorps members playing key roles in ecosystem restoration and environmental education. “AmeriCorps is one of those rare federal programs that has the ability to access rural communities,” said one representative. WPR.

If you spend time on the far east side of metropolitan Indianapolis, Indiana, you might see… a horse? Nestled between residential neighborhoods is Broganville Farm, a Black-owned family farm, home to horses, goats, miniature cows and a large vegetable garden. Through community partnerships, educational programs and events, Broganville teaches kids about farm life — how to care for livestock, grow food and spend more time outside. “You see sometimes people say, ‘Black people don’t do this’ or, ‘you can’t have a farm in the city,’” said owner Kadeem Brogan. “But here we are, in the middle of Indianapolis… We just try to bring the country to the city, expose our kids to something different.” Mirror Indy.

Discover The Huneebee Project in this mini documentary — one of the first therapeutic beekeeping programs for teens in the U.S. Based in New Haven, Connecticut, the program teaches teenagers beekeeping skills that they can take to other jobs, while also providing a therapeutic setting for them to work through hardship and trauma. Participants report that beekeeping helped them find meditation and mindfulness by confronting fears surrounding bees, witnessing the mesmerizing white noise the hives create, and building a supportive community throughout the four-month program. “There’s nothing really going on,” reflects one teen. “It’s just me and the bees.” Connecticut Public Radio.

Climate change’s growing impact is creeping its way into everyday life, from deciding whether kids should play outside after school in rising temps, to whether younger adults want to have children. Meanwhile, climate anxiety is on the rise — in a recent study, 78% of young people reported that climate change impacts their overall mental health. One Canadian professor suggests that outdoor sports like mountain biking, cross-country skiing and rock climbing can help young people connect with nature, build community and participate in environmental stewardship. These activities can provide a positive channel for feelings of hopelessness or climate anxiety. The Conversation.

This short news broadcast covers students at H.J. Russell West End Academy in Atlanta, Georgia, who care for nearly 50,000 bees as members of “The Bee Club.” Guided by professional beekeeper Edward Morgan, the students spend the year learning about beekeeping, inspecting hives and harvesting honey. Morgan’s mentorship has been key to the club’s success, highlighting one of two essential factors for other schools looking to adopt similar programs — the other being funding. The Bee Club itself got its start with a grant from the Metro Atlanta Beekeepers Association. WSB-TV.

In Minnesota, a teen-founded organization inspires more than 2,000 volunteers to get their hands dirty by weeding, digging, planting and chopping to complete projects that are designed, planned and executed by teenagers. The Green Crew is turning young people’s growing climate anxiety into collective action — and research suggests this response can help reduce climate-related depression and anxiety. Thanks to their unique model, the Green Crew gives young people a rare but vital sense of agency. The New York Times.

In Los Angeles, California, green spaces are distributed inequitably due to historic redlining and other racist policies — concentrating roughly 20% of the city’s canopy in five neighborhoods containing just 1% of the city’s population. But Amigos de los Rios has a vision for a shimmering “Emerald Necklace” of green spaces, schools, parks and trails flanking the city’s Rio Hondo and San Gabriel rivers, from the nearby San Gabriel Mountains to the Pacific Ocean. The nonprofit has greened almost 30 schools in the Los Angeles area, despite losing their offices in the recent Eaton fire. From the ashes, they’re growing native plants — and closing the greenspace gap. The Guardian.

In St. Louis, Missouri, environmental education organization Gateway to the Great Outdoors laid off 70% of its team. In Darrington, Washington, Glacier Peak Institute, which provides STEM education and workforce development to rural youth, closed one of its two offices and is facing the possibility of ending all operations. In Tupper Lake, New York, the Adirondack Mountains’ only AmeriCorps program — located at science and natural history museum The Wild Center — was shut down after all of its staff were terminated. These are just a few examples of the ways that recent cuts to AmeriCorps funding have affected nature-based programming for youth and young leaders. STLPR.

A new strategy for raising awareness of — and funds for — environmental causes could help grow the movement and protect nature’s inherent rights. Musicians are exploring the intellectual property rights of nature sounds, which they’ve incorporated as key elements into their compositions. It’s a new take on the Rights of Nature movement, which advocates for the legal rights of nature, and an unconventional way to incorporate nature into the creation and enjoyment of art. In a world first, the More Than Human Life Project (MOTH) petitioned for the Los Cedros cloud forest in Ecuador to be legally recognized as co-creator of “Song of the Cedars,” which features recordings of birds, bats and bugs on the haunting, supernatural track. Sierra.

Pediatrician and member of the Children & Nature Network’s Scientific Advisory Council (and Nature Everywhere Conference presenter) Pooja Tandon offers practical, age-based tips to incorporate nature and art into activities with the children in your life. Finger painting with mud, scribble tracing, flower pressing, nature photography, watercolor en plein air, sticky leaf collages and animal masks are just a few of the ideas Tandon poses to improve children’s development and well-being. Hastings Tribune.

“Honoring our heritage isn’t only about looking back — it’s also about investing in the future,” writes Rejie Baloyos, Executive Director of community-based nonprofit Asian Resources, Inc. In this article, Baloyos explores the intersection of social and environmental responsibility with a call to take action in a simple yet impactful way: pick up litter. She explains how trash in our neighborhoods, parks and schools is a reflection of how we value our shared spaces and each other, and offers easy, actionable tips for how to help clean up your community. AsAmNews.

Across Minnesota, students are carefully observing the natural environment to learn more about phenology, the “rhythmic, biological nature of events as they relate to climate.” This special radio story gathers phenological reports from students, shared in the form of poems, observations, audio clips, videos and wildlife sightings. Peruse this story and watch, read or listen to whatever strikes your fancy to see and hear the natural world from the unique viewpoints of these young people. KAXE.

In Cleveland, Ohio, a group of high school students studying environmental science developed a Children’s Outdoor Bill of Rights (COBOR). The students solicited community input and worked with local environmental leaders to curate a list of 12 rights that all Cleveland children should enjoy, including rights to clean air, Lake Erie recreation, tree-lined streets, snow play and more. The students presented their proposed COBOR to Cleveland City Council on Earth Day to great success — the council voted to pass the COBOR as a resolution a few days later. This is a fantastic real-life example of how young people can lead environmental movements in their communities. Hoodline.

As a teacher, education journalist, parent educator and mom, Deborah Farmer Kris has spent the past 25 years invested in one question: How do we help kids thrive? Her research has led her to an often-overlooked emotion: awe. But while seeking to understand how connecting to nature can help inspire awe in children, she found its power and relevance in her own life. “Have you forgotten what it feels like to blow on a dandelion?” writes Kris. “It’s never too late to remember. Because those wide-eyed goosebump moments that come from awe? Those are good for adults, too.” Greater Good Magazine.

“These are extraordinary times,” said Ignace Glorieux, a sociology professor at Brussels University, noting that the under-30 generation — shaped by COVID-19 — faces rising pressure amid global and economic uncertainty. For 26-year-old Gilles Gui, nature is a balm. Each spring, Belgium’s Hallerbos forest blooms with bluebells, drawing global visitors. Gui finds peace there, echoing experts who say time in nature eases anxiety and boosts well-being. What flowers are blooming near you this time of year? AP News.

To celebrate Earth Week, the New York Times recently collected youth responses to the question “How do you connect to nature?” Some shared their favorite outdoor activities: hiking, horseback riding, surfing, skiing and more. Others reported that being in nature helps them relieve stress, relax in a peaceful setting and connect with loved ones. The common denominator? A love for the outdoors. “I wish I were more surrounded by nature and had more opportunities for outdoor activities,” reflected one young person. “If I could change anything, I would like to have more parks, forests or hiking spots close to home.” New York Times.

As Canada faces more intense and frequent heat waves due to climate change, experts warn schools and childcare centers are unprepared — endangering children’s health and learning, and deepening inequities. A national action plan calls for nature-based solutions: more trees, natural ground cover and shade structures. “Children thrive when they have ample time outdoors,” says Louise de Lannoy, Executive Director, Outdoor Play Canada. “Without proactive measures now to create heat-resilient outdoor play and learning settings, climate change will take an even greater toll on our children and their futures.” Science X.

Ben Jealous, Executive Director of the Sierra Club, spent his childhood outdoors. Growing up in Pacific Grove, California, meant playing among redwood trees and surfing at local beaches — and witnessing the migration of western monarch butterflies. Now, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service estimates the population Jealous observed has declined by more than 95% since the ‘80s. The decline in this vital pollinator is symptomatic of our current extinction crisis, fueled by climate change and human activity, and calls us to action. “[Our kids and our grandkids] deserve a world full of critters of all kinds, to witness an abundance of species, each playing their vital role in the ecosystems on which we all depend,” writes Jealous. Chicago Sun Times.

Outdoor programs are more than just recreational — they’re vital to youth development. Hello Insight recently released a study, supported by the Annie E. Casey Foundation and the YMCA, which analyzed data from over 10,000 young people across various outdoor and non-outdoor programs. The study found that outdoor programs promote social skills, self-management and academic self-efficacy at a higher rate than other out-of-school or after-school programs. When young people are exposed to high quality outdoor exploration and reflection experiences, the skill development typical of a more traditional out-of-school program is enhanced by nearly 30%. The takeaway? Nature-based program design matters — and youth benefit! Hello Insight.

Happy 20th anniversary, Garden to Table! The Boulder Valley, Colorado, nonprofit runs gardening programs in 18 elementary schools, providing everything from maintenance to garden educators and teaching tools. Lessons combine academic curriculums with gardening activities. The kids learn about where their food comes from, environmental stewardship — and the joy of gardening. “Think about if you were stuck inside all day learning, and then you get to go outside and explore, look for insects, plant something and get your hands in the dirt,” says Courtlyn Carpenter of Garden to Table. “It’s a nice reset for a lot of students,” Carpenter explains. “Teachers say that, after the garden lesson, kids are more focused and able to learn.” Hear more in the radio interview. KGNU.

For young children, outdoor play and learning provides proven health and developmental benefits — and fosters future environmental stewardship. Across the U.S., the National League of Cities (NLC) is supporting city-driven efforts to connect children to nature through two key initiatives: Nature Everywhere Communities, and the Outdoor and Nature-Based Early Care and Nature Collaborative. “As communities across the nation strengthen their commitment to nature access for all children,” Vera Feeny writes, “they are fostering a future where all children can grow, play and thrive — while ensuring a more resilient planet for generations to come.” CitiesSpeak.

In a 2022 Aspen Institute survey, 70% of parents and caregivers interviewed said children’s media should include climate change information. But researchers found that less than 2% of the 664 episodes they studied from 31 educational and nature-themed TV series did. Enter “Suzie Hicks the Climate Chick & Sprout,” a crowd-funded YouTube show that’s trailblazing climate content for kids ages 4 to 8. On the show, climate scientist Hicks discusses human-caused climate change with a curious puppet — what’s happening, why it matters and what they can do about it. They say, “I’m hopeful that I can help kids love climate science and love the earth.” Maine Public.

Alaska Native youth are leading the fight to protect their homelands and traditions. Four young women — Jazmyn Lee Vent, Sophie Swope, Malia Towne and Mackenzie Englishoe — have dedicated their careers to protecting the environment and centering Indigenous knowledge in environmental issues, from climate advocacy to fishery sciences. Their efforts to defend caribou populations, safeguard salmon spawning tributaries and challenge harmful development projects honor their ancestors while ensuring that future generations can continue their way of life. “Our time here on this Earth is very short,” Swope said. “We were gifted all of the things that we have by our ancestors, and we’re only borrowing this space on earth from the future generations.” High Mountain News.

Cressida Cowell, author and illustrator of the bestselling “How to Train Your Dragon” series, credits her “gloriously wild” childhood in Scotland as an inspiration for her books. She believes that the freedom she and other children had in the 1970s to roam helped cultivate a respect for nature and sense of self-reliance. Now, Cowell worries that the modern-day approach to free outdoor play is impacting today’s children. “We’re distancing generations of children from nature, and [nature] has never been more important,” says Cowell. “How can you value something if you’re not out there in it?” The Telegraph.

The City of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, is ready to transform schoolyards into vibrant green spaces, increasing opportunities for local children to explore the natural world and engage in unstructured play. The city is a participant of the Nature Everywhere Communities initiative, a joint partnership between the Children & Nature Network, the National League of Cities and KABOOM!. As a Nature Everywhere Accelerator Community, Cedar Rapids will receive a year of strategic planning and technical support, as well as start up funding. By greening schoolyards and developing climate-resilient infrastructure, the city aims to improve children’s development, mental and physical health, and access to nature. The Gazette.

Over the past two years, the Nevada Outdoor Education and Recreation Grant Program has awarded $500,000 to 45 projects in Nevada, increasing opportunities for Nevada students to experience the outdoors. In addition to supporting a range of activities, from mountain biking to beekeeping, the grant-supported programs help expose youth to different career paths. Teacher Jaime Sammons, whose class was a recipient of the grant program, reflected on its effects: “It’s huge for so many reasons, just the monetary value of it, but on top of that, I tell the kids all the time, there’s people that are rooting for you that you haven’t even met.” KUNR.

Looking for a way to celebrate Earth Month with the kiddos? Plant a container garden. It’s an easy afternoon project for little hands (read: delightfully dirty and messy) — and a great way to get them interested in spending time outside and growing their own food. This article offers tips and tricks to get you started, from choosing a pot to figuring out what to plant. Tip #1? Make sure to have fun! Seattle’s Child.

Australian educators are concerned about the impact of touchscreens and digital play on young children’s physical development. Experts warn that without sufficient hands-on play and physical interaction, foundational motor skills — like gripping pencils or buttoning clothes — will deteriorate, potentially affecting children’s independence and academic readiness. “Outdoor play is crucial, as natural environments challenge children to move in ways that build balance and strength,” reports Chloe Han, an early childhood teacher. “Creating opportunities for free movement and tactile play can help reverse the trend of declining motor skills.” The Educator Online.

In Alabama, the “First Class Pre-K” designation signifies a state-funded, high-quality pre-kindergarten program. The Auburn University Kreher Preserve and Nature Center (KPNC) Woodland Wonders Nature Preschool recently became the first nature preschool in the state to receive the designation. “This milestone represents a significant advancement for both Alabama and the entire nature-based learning community,” said Michael Buckman, KPNC manager. “It is noteworthy that, nationwide, very few state-level education departments recognize or license nature-based schools at any grade level.” Woodland Wonders is now able to offer tuition-free education for enrolled students, thanks to a grant associated with the designation. Alabama News Center.

Drag queen and environmental activist Pattie Gonia is on a mission to make the outdoors more welcoming for the LGBTQ+ community. After going viral for hiking in drag (complete with 6-inch heels!), Pattie has used her platform to promote inclusivity, environmental awareness and queer visibility in nature spaces. From performing at climate-focused events to filming meaningful projects in national parks, Pattie turns personal experiences and creativity into advocacy, community-building and environmental action. “One of the biggest lessons the outdoors has taught me is to be where your feet are,” says Pattie. “Very rarely are we where our feet are nowadays. We’re in a thousand different places in our day.” National Geographic.

As climate change worsens and freshwater systems face increasing threats, ecological grief weighs heavily on young people — many of whom feel an outsized burden. In response, a handful of freshwater scientists founded Riparia, a Canadian charity that offers free land-based learning programs for young women and girls from a variety of backgrounds and life experiences. The program fosters a deep connection to land and water and inspires stewardship. As one youth participant shared: “Being with these girls reassured me that our environment’s future isn’t something we have to take on alone and it will be much easier if we do it together.” The Conversation.

A growing body of research connecting exposure to nature with positive health outcomes — from decreased blood pressure, stress and pain to improved sleep and focus — has doctors around the world writing “nature prescriptions” for their patients. Yet as climate change accelerates and weather patterns continue to shift, our ability to access nature and its benefits will be impacted. In fact, some of us may experience climate anxiety or “solastagia,” a term for the distress and pain caused by the loss of our home environments and the solace they bring. Inside Climate News.

Have you ever peered through a magnifying glass and noticed how hairy plants are? Do you have a favorite nearby nature spot to “patch-bird”? Spring is full of opportunities to slow down and explore, and this article offers creative ways to do just that. Whether through mindful observation or hands-on projects, these activities help you — and the young people in your life — appreciate the beauty and benefits of the season. NPR.

Fourth graders are having a moment. In Utah, Wyoming, California, Michigan and beyond — state and local programs are zeroing in on fourth grade classes for field trips and environmental education. And, the federal “Every Kid Outdoors” program provides a free pass to national parks and other federally managed public lands for fourth graders and their families. It’s a good thing, too, since research shows that fourth graders are at a prime age to learn about the world around them. As one fourth grade teacher in California explained, “When kids see these incredible places up close, it really makes an impression. They realize that caring for the environment isn’t just something adults talk about — it’s something they can do too.” Go RVing.

Women around the world are leading powerful climate justice movements — even as they are disproportionately affected by environmental destruction. From Vandana Shiva’s seed-saving nonprofit Navdanya to the Indigenous women who served as spiritual leaders at Standing Rock, women have long protected land, water and community. Their efforts continue a legacy of resilience and care for the earth, and shape a greener and healthier future for our youth. Earth.org.

Are you looking to plan a fun outdoor activity for your family, but facing some reluctance from your youngest members? 10-year-old Finn has some honest advice for parents: bring candy for motivation, don’t lie about distances, play games to beat boredom and always pack a tennis ball. From monarch butterflies to river rinses, Finn recognizes that there’s always fun to be had in the outdoors — adventures sometimes just take a bit of patience, creativity and a little bribery. Blue Ridge Outdoors.

The International Fund for Animal Welfare hosted their seventh annual international art contest, themed “Wildlife Conservation Finance: Investing in People and Planet.” Young artists used their work to highlight the urgent need to protect wildlife and habitats. One panel judge noted that the artists “captured the beauty and urgency of conservation and, seen through the eyes of the next generation, their art also offers a powerful reminder that the lives, hopes and opportunities of children today depend on decisions that ensure both people and planet can flourish.” Explore all of the finalists’ artwork in this article. International Fund for Animal Welfare.

Community engagement is a crucial part of increasing access to nature — it’s so important, we covered it in our last edition of Finding Nature News! Here’s another example: In Los Angeles, low-income residents of color are much more likely to lack access to neighborhood parks, compared to wealthier white residents. Now, the city’s Department of Recreation and Parks is engaging residents in a “park needs assessment” to understand what residents think of the city’s parks and what kinds of changes they would like to see in the park system. “It will set the stage for improving and expanding our park system across the city,” reports a consultant to the project, “prioritizing areas of highest need, and focusing park funding to achieve visible, tangible results for the residents of Los Angeles.” Ethnic Media Services.

In Gresham, Oregon, Pamela Slaughter leads hikers through the old growth forest of Oxbow Regional Park. Slaughter is the founder of People of Color Outdoors, a group that hosts events for people of color to engage in outdoor recreation and enjoy time in nature. Five decades earlier, Oxbow Regional Park’s ancient forest was preserved by another Black woman: Estella Ehelebe, who was the first Black superintendent for the Multnomah County Forest and the first and only Black woman to lead Multnomah County Parks before they were transferred to Metro in 1994. “[Oxbow is] more special to me because I know Estella Ehelebee had a direct hand,” reports Slaughter. “It reminds me that one person can make a difference for generations.” Oregon Public Broadcasting.

Students from Bready Primary School in Londonderry, Northern Ireland, have buried a time capsule predicting future food trends, as part of the Acorn Farm Project, which focuses on sustainability and climate change. The students imagined future meals featuring 3D-printed food, lab-grown meat and insect protein — even predicting seaweed pizza! The Acorn Farm Project plans to develop a working urban farm, community education facility and sustainable food venue in Derry, and the time capsule project aims to teach students about the importance of sustainability. “The message we leave for future generations in our time capsule today is a hopeful one that demonstrates our commitment to changing things for the better,” said Derry and Strabane Mayor Lilian Seenoi-Barr. BBC.

A new map from The Wilderness Society highlights the potential impact of President Trump’s “energy dominance” vision on U.S. public lands. Executive and secretarial orders have raised concerns about reduced protections for national monuments and wildlands, including Bears Ears National Monument and the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge. The orders prioritize fossil fuel development on public lands. While supporters argue for the importance of energy production, critics warn that these policies could lead to significant environmental harm, affecting wildlife, water sources and outdoor recreation areas across the country. The Wilderness Society.

In Ivujivik, Québec’s northernmost village, Inukrock Climbers Club is inspiring kids to reach new heights. Ivujivik’s massive rock faces are home to thick-billed murres and their high-protein eggs. Generations of locals have climbed the rock faces to harvest these eggs — oftentimes without equipment. Now, Inukrock is teaching the multi-generational population modern rock climbing techniques to pass down this age-old tradition (with a few modern-day safety measures!) while training a new generation of conscientious climbers and building youth leadership skills. CBC.

Federal crackdowns on initiatives relating to environmental justice and diversity, equity and inclusion are impacting communities. “I think that our Black youth are the most vulnerable,” said Chuck Morse, Executive Director of the nonprofit ThriveNOLA, in response to the threat of funding cuts to their six-week summer camp for middle- and high-schoolers. The program teaches campers about native biodiversity, flood resilience, and waste literacy and management. “We have so many other things we’re focused on in life … that we don’t focus on [the environment]. I want people to see how important this is … and how to become good stewards.” Despite challenges, these Black-led climate groups are pushing back. Atmos.

Recent cuts to the U.S. federal workforce have affected public land management agencies, with a combined loss of approximately 4,400 workers in the USDA Forest Service and National Park Service alone. The consequences of widespread terminations are myriad, with potential impacts to public health and safety, as well as the effective management and maintenance of natural resources and areas. And of course, a major impact will be on the quality and quantity of educational programs and offerings that staff can offer — affecting all park visitors, including young people and families. “You’re losing people who are teaching youth the value of protecting and preserving these places for current and future generations,” former park ranger Brian Gibbs said. NPR.

In Manitoba, Canada, winter wind chill can make temperatures feel like –30 degrees celsius or colder — prompting schools to institute “indoor recess” during extreme temps for student safety. However, some brave students have banded together to form “Polar Bear Clubs.” With parental permission, they opt to bundle up and spend part of their indoor recess outside. “Usually, it is just their eyeballs sticking out,” club founder Marsha Leary said. Still, teachers have noticed that even just 15 minutes of outdoor time makes a difference. “They are more ready to learn,” principal Angela Perez said. “They’ve been able to kind of exert some of that energy out … Their minds and bodies are calmer.” CBC.

In Plumas County, California, place-based educator Rob Wade is harnessing the transformative power of nature journaling. His students observe, reflect and document their local landscapes through weekly journaling activities. The program has also leveraged partnerships to ensure that every school in the Upper Feather River Watershed has a wild place to learn and explore within a 10-minute walk. “Nature journaling reveals unexpected moments of wonder and noticing, connecting kids to a place that’s alive with details they would otherwise pass by,” writes Wade. “This growing awareness fosters an intimacy with the land and with themselves that’s as irreplaceable as the place itself.” Greater Good Magazine.

More than half of all teenagers in the U.S. ages 16–17 report participating in wildlife-watching near home. “I really think that the pandemic opened many young people’s eyes to how beautiful and joyous birding can be,” said Mya Thompson, of the Cornell Lab of Ornithology. In just one year, the Cornell Lab’s Merlin Bird ID App saw the average age of its users decline by eight years, from 57 to 49. The Florida Young Birders Club, with members ages 9–17, is another manifestation of the recent interest in birdwatching among young people. “It helps to relieve stress and anxiety. And then when we add in those peer relationships with other young birders, it only gets better,” said Laura Guerard of the American Birding Association. WUSF.

While it’s commonly understood that learning and playing outside has mental, physical and academic benefits for children, a recent study points to a less-expected benefit: gut health. The study compared the gut health of 100 kids enrolled in an outdoor preschool program to those in a traditional preschool. Building off of these results, a future study plans to take a closer look at the effects of outdoor time on gut health and stress hormones. “We only know a fraction of what being outside does for kids,” study author Amber Fyfe-Johnson said. Seattle Times.

In Melbourne, Australia, innovative “risky” playgrounds dare children to test their limits and inspire creative play. This article tells the story of one mom’s journey: Motivated by the poorly designed playgrounds that she used to visit with her children, Cathy Kiss AM became an open space planner and president of the board for Play Australia. Plus, discover some of Melbourne’s most exciting playgrounds, with play features like huge climbing rocks on wheels, climbing forests and beautiful wooden treehouses — and read advice for nervous nannies, parents and carers. Melbourne News.

Many Black Americans face real barriers to accessing outdoor spaces and outdoor education. But there have always been Black leaders devoting their lives to creating safe spaces in the outdoors. This article highlights some of the Black voices that have inspired the employees of Shaver’s Creek Environmental Center in Pennsylvania, including leaders like George Washington Carver, Dr. Ayana Elizabeth Johnson and Rue Mapp. The Naturalist Notebook.

A series of self-guided nature walks and tours of parks in British Columbia (BC), Canada, are now available in American Sign Language (ASL). Led by Island Deaf and Hard of Hearing Centre (IDHHC), in partnership with BC Parks and BC Parks Foundation, the project aims to help more deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals connect with the natural world — especially children. While hearing children may learn about the names of trees or the importance of conservation simply by overhearing conversations during family outings, the IDHHC reports that deaf children often miss out on this type of indirect learning. The new ASL tours aim to level that playing field, explains Kristi Falconer, Communications Services Manager for IDHHC. Eagle Valley News.

From a 17-year vow of silence to bold fights against corporate pollution, Black leaders have driven sustainable and just change in the American environmentalist and environmental justice movements. Their work — spanning urban revitalization, community activism, groundbreaking research and environmental policy — has left an enduring impact on local, national and global levels. Celebrate Black History Month by exploring this “micro-museum” and learning more about eight Black trailblazers whose dedication to sustainability, equity and justice continues to inspire future generations. Heal the Bay.

A recent study found that adults and youth find different but fulfilling benefits from nature journaling — the practice of using words or pictures to capture nature observations. While adults are drawn to the fellowship and community-building aspects of nature journaling, youth predominantly enjoy the opportunities for authentic and up-close encounters with natural phenomena. The study also suggests that nature journaling may have a beneficial effect on mental health. “Nature journaling is restorative,” explains study lead Lucy McClain, “giving people a chance to slow down, disconnect from the stressors of daily life and pay attention to their surroundings.” Penn State.

It’s Black History Month in Canada. This year’s theme for the month, “Black Legacy and Leadership: Celebrating Canadian history and uplifting future generations,” acknowledges the essential role of Black leadership in creating a better world. Meet five Canadian-based, Black-led organizations furthering climate and environmental justice, promoting environmental action, cultivating environmental leadership and building community in the outdoors. Greenpeace.

Despite the challenges of being out in winter weather conditions, there are tangible benefits to spending time outside in the cold weather. Winter introduces new opportunities to improve motor skills while clad in layers and boots, gives kids a breath of fresh air during cold and flu season, and boosts vitamin D to improve mental health. Learn more tips and tricks for spending time outside in winter with Effie Drew, Owner and Managing Director of Maine Outdoor Kids. Portland Press Herald.

Quinta Mazatlán, a historical estate and nature center in McAllen, Texas, was recently awarded a $2.7 million grant to partner with the McAllen Independent School District (ISD) and build seven Schoolyard Forests on elementary school grounds. While Schoolyard Forests create spaces for outdoor education, they also provide shade, mitigate flooding and cool the neighborhood. McAllen ISD plans to increase the tree canopy (currently between 5–9%) by up to 30% at each campus. They will receive additional support as participants of the Nature Everywhere Communities initiative, a partnership between the Children & Nature Network, National League of Cities and KABOOM! to increase equitable access to nature. McAllen ISD.

A global survey of 10,000 young people recently found that 59% were very or extremely worried about climate change. Additional evidence demonstrates that nearly one-third of disaster-affected people may experience challenges such as post-traumatic stress disorder, anxiety and depression — an especially concerning statistic amid record-breaking high temperatures and extreme weather events. Here are three promising strategies to support youth and ensure they are equipped with the tools they need to emotionally and practically navigate the world they’re inheriting. Yale Climate Connections.

Austin, Texas, is reshaping how kids interact with nature to create equitable access for all. The city is part of the Nature Everywhere Communities initiative, a partnership among the Children & Nature Network, KABOOM! and the National League of Cities, and an extension of the multi-year Cities Connecting Children to Nature initiative. Key efforts include transforming school grounds into green schoolyards, creating nature play spaces and partnering with Austin Public Library to increase nature-themed library programming. The city aims to make nature an everyday part of children’s lives, supporting children’s physical and emotional health and nurturing their lifelong connection to the environment. In the Parks.

In this 15-minute radio broadcast, hear from Peter Cooley, CEO and founder of IndigiGrow. Based in Sydney, IndigiGrow is an Australian plant nursery that cultivates important native plants, including bush foods and the critically endangered Eastern Suburbs Banksia Scrub. Throughout a four-year apprenticeship, Aboriginal youth staff propagate and grow native plants while learning Traditional Knowledge and stories from Aboriginal Elders. The program helps youth build a strong cultural foundation and connection to Country, while increasing biodiversity, fauna habitats and ecological resilience through the planting of native species. SBS NITV Radio.

In Michigan, Muskegon Luge Adventure Sports Park wants every person to have the opportunity to play in the snow and ice. The park has invested in adaptive sports equipment to make recreation options like luge, ice skating, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing accessible to all. Skate trainers, ice bikes and skate sleds offer a range of options for participants. “However we can get people on the ice, to try something new — we’re game,” said David Bonner, Muskegon’s outdoor adventure specialist. “It’s all up to them what they want to try.” MLive.

Environmental education often centers on action, such as going on a nature walk or cultivating plants in a school garden. However, authors of a recent study suggest integrating activities that explore how children feel toward nature into environmental education curriculum. They found that children who empathize with nature have more positive attitudes about eco-friendly behaviors. “Educational practices involving empathy with nature may better shape children’s intuitive environmental thoughts and feelings,” study authors write. A practice of this type “might be more long-lasting due to its ability to change children’s internal thinking and intrinsic motivation for environmental protection.” Greater Good Magazine.

For many parents and their children, outdoor education was a refuge during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. However, ongoing wildfires in Los Angeles have devastated local natural and educational areas that served as sanctuaries and learning spaces, including every type of educational setting: public and private schools, nature-based preschools, homeschool groups, summer camps and more. Even areas untouched by fire were inaccessible due to poor air quality, and it is unclear when certain natural spaces will be safe for recreation. “The nature center is gone,” said Richard Smart, superintendent of the Eaton Canyon Natural Area in Pasadena. “The park is such a touchstone for people in the community… Devastating is not even the right word. It feels indescribable.” Associated Press.

“Hiking Hijabie” was founded by a Somali-American mother in Minneapolis, Minnesota, to promote all-season activities and provide companionship to those who might otherwise feel singled out in the great outdoors, especially when wearing hijabs. The group explores the outdoors, their faith and everything in between — including environmental sustainability from the perspective of Islam. The group’s rapid growth from an initial nine members to now more than 700 participants represents the strong demand for such a community. As one participant shared, “I love being outdoors and joining this group has made me more comfortable to participate.” Associated Press News.

On January 4, President Biden signed the Expanding Public Lands Outdoor Recreation Experiences (EXPLORE) Act into law. The legislation includes much-needed provisions to expand equitable and inclusive access to the outdoors for veterans, youth and communities. “Now, thanks to champions on both sides of the aisle, more veterans and young people across the country can experience the awesome might of nature,” says Sierra Club Executive Director Ben Jealous. “The EXPLORE Act will improve the quality of life for communities across the country.” Sierra Club.

The global rate of myopia (or “nearsightedness”) among children and teens has tripled over the past three decades. Research suggests that the trend is linked to more time spent indoors doing “near work,” such as looking at a book, computer or phone screen. However, a 2018 study found that one additional hour of outdoor time per week could lower a child’s odds of developing myopia by 14% — and the hour does not need to be consecutive. Shorter periods of outdoor activity, like walking to school, being outside at recess and lunchtime, and playing outdoors after school all add up. CBC.

Montana’s Supreme Court recently ruled that 16 youth plaintiffs have the right to “a clean and healthful environment.” The court upheld a historic lower court ruling, Held v. Montana, in which the plaintiffs argued that the state violated that right by limiting analysis of greenhouse gas emissions during environmental review of fossil fuel projects. The lawsuit was the nation’s first constitutional climate case to go to trial. Lead plaintiff Rikki Held hailed the court’s decision as “a victory not just for us, but for every young person whose future is threatened by climate change.” Grist.

In Canada, an innovative and proactive approach to health care is taking root. Halton Healthcare is now the first hospital system in Canada to partner with PaRx, an evidence-based initiative endorsed by the Canadian Medical Association that encourages professionals to prescribe time spent in nature as medicine. “We know that incorporating these preventative lifestyle measures is an excellent step towards setting up healthier communities and providing holistic care,” hospitalist and physician Dr. Nivedita Patel said. Today, over 16,000 Canadian health care professionals are registered to prescribe time in nature, collectively issuing more than one million nature prescriptions. Global News.

As the climate crisis intensifies, U.S. cities are building multifunctional infrastructure to mitigate the local impacts of global warming. In flood-prone Hoboken, New Jersey, a play area for its youngest residents doubles as a storage area for roughly 2 million gallons of stormwater runoff. Swing sets, slides, a basketball court and an athletic field cover a below-ground tank that stores excess stormwater, preventing it from flooding streets or basements. “ResilienCity Park” also increases local families’ access to nature-based play environments and creates a space for children to learn more about the climate forces that drove the park’s creation.

After years of advocacy, the Outdoors Alliance for Kids (OAK) — of which the Children & Nature Network is a member — is celebrating the passage of the EXPLORE Act. This crucial piece of legislation will improve accessibility options in the outdoors, improve or create new outdoor recreation facilities, and connect more generations of children with nature. The package includes support for the Every Kid Outdoors program, which grants free access to national parks and recreation areas for fourth graders and their families. It also supports three other important programs that improve access to public lands for all. Outdoors Alliance for Kids.

Each of us can have an outsized impact when we tap into our talents. Every year, retiree Carl Augostini restores discarded bikes and donates them for the holidays. This year, he restored and donated 38 bikes to a local church, 35 of which were for children. He also donated 10 restored bikes to formerly incarcerated people living in a halfway house and 10 additional bikes to people experiencing homelessness. Augostini dreams big with his restorations — several of the children’s bikes featured complex paint schemes and one even had a noise-making gauge to emulate a motor. “I like to see kids have bicycles,” Augostini explained. “It gets them away from their iPhones and iPads and gets them out there getting some exercise and doing things kids should be doing.” Anna Maria Island Sun.

The author of this piece reflects on a simple and cost-efficient childhood, with patched-up hand-me-downs and games of H-O-R-S-E played using a discarded laundry basket. Now a doctor and Ivy League graduate, she realized that although she and her husband clawed their way to a more comfortable existence, this privilege still doesn’t shield her children from climate change. She sees the “fingerprints of climate change” everywhere: from the increasingly hot summer days spent with her kids, to her patients’ worsening asthma. In this piece, she advocates for ways that supermoms can use their powers of organization and logistical prowess to move society at large toward the climate future we all deserve. Yale Climate Connections.

Are you a concerned parent or educator, trying to present the case for nature-based learning to your school district? New research highlights school gardens as powerful tools for connecting children to nature. A four-month teaching program in a school garden significantly increased children’s interest in nature, stimulated independent exploration and facilitated social interactions outside of the program that further enhanced the overall learning experience. The study authors formally recommend implementing mini botanical gardens and club activities in schools to bridge formal and informal education. British Ecological Society.

As participants in the Nature Everywhere Communities initiative, the Nevada Outdoor Education Advisory Working Group (AWG) is receiving support to expand outdoor education opportunities for children across the state of Nevada. The AWG spent the past year studying best practices, as well as conducting bilingual public surveys and stakeholder focus groups to gather feedback on outdoor education strategies. The public’s input directly informed the AWG’s recommendations, which the group finalized in a highly anticipated report recently released to the Nevada Legislature for review. The report includes a bill draft request to establish an Outdoor Education Network. CarsonNOW.

Birders everywhere are gearing up for the 125th Christmas Bird Count, an annual bird census coordinated by the National Audubon Society with some 80,000 observers participating each year. Six of those participants are the O’Connors, a family residing in Oregon’s High Desert. The four O’Connor daughters will join in the fifth annual Christmas Bird Count for Kids & Families (CBC4Kids), organized through their local library — an event they’ve attended since its inception. The event is like a scavenger hunt, with maps, binoculars and special kid-friendly field guides, as well as hot chocolate and donuts. The Oregonian.

“It’s new news; it’s old news; it’s news that can never be repeated too often: spending time in nature reduces emotional distress.” We couldn’t have put it better ourselves! A recent study from Canadian researchers found that time spent outside improved the mental health of students experiencing anxiety, depression and social challenges. Involving more than 1,000 students ages 10 to 12 years old over the course of three months, the low-cost program simply entailed spending two hours of class time in a nearby park each week, during which teachers offered their regular lessons. Good News Network.

The city of Dubuque, Iowa, is one of the newest communities selected to join Nature Everywhere Communities — a partnership among the Children & Nature Network, the National League of Cities and Kaboom!. The national initiative works to make it easier for children to live, learn and play in nature. According to the Trust for Public Land, 35% of Dubuque residents don’t have immediate access to nature — and local Dubuque organizations want to change that. “It’s not just about developing a stewardship,” said Jared McGovern, director of The Wanderwood Gardens, one of the organizations that compose the Dubuque cross-sector team. “That’s one of the ultimate goals, obviously, but there’s positive academic outcomes, there’s brain health outcomes, there’s physical health outcomes.” KCRG.

Earlier this year, Colorado became the second state to create a license option for outdoor preschools. “These outdoor programs are really good for a lot of kids,” says Colorado state senator Janice Marchman. “Yet, they’re very expensive. They become quite exclusive.” This article reviews the benefits that could accompany the recent legislation, including increased access to funds and improved legitimacy and flexibility — changes which could broaden access to nature schools for all, especially low-income families and families of color. 5280.

Loneliness and isolation are at an all-time high, to the extent that the surgeon general declared it an epidemic — and young people aren’t immune. In fact, the surgeon general’s 2023 report on the topic named young people ages 15 to 24 as a higher risk population, with time spent in-person with friends reduced by nearly 70% among this age group in the past 20 years. The One More Hour initiative encourages young people to meet in person via groups structured around shared interests and activities, like Intersxtn Surf — a group for women of color who surf together. The organizers note that moving social interaction off the screens and into real life can take a bit of effort, just like starting a new sport. “They just need to build these muscles.” NPR.

In Australia, a nationwide poetry contest invites students to voice their thoughts about nature and climate change. And in the city of Wollongong, those words become tangible through a program that plants a tree for every entry received. The project planted more than 6,400 trees last year, and this year, participants also get the opportunity to take home a seedling — doubling their impact. “It’s a beautiful way for kids to connect with nature, both in the planting of trees and in engaging their imagination through poetry to explore what nature and the environment mean to them,” said Wollongong Botanical Garden curator Felicity Skoberne. Region Illawarra.

It’s Thanksgiving in the United States, a holiday that originally celebrated the mythical tale of a peaceful harvest between pilgrims and the Wampanoag tribe of Massachusetts. In this article, young leaders from the Aspen Institute’s Center for Native American Youth offer new ways of recognizing Thanksgiving. They share ways that Americans can acknowledge the genocide carried out by settler colonists on Native American populations, uplift and celebrate Indigenous culture — and hold space for truth. The Aspen Institute.

The Lummi Youth Canoe Family once offered canoe journeys throughout the Salish Sea, paddling between coastal Tribes to help connect Lummi Tribal members to their culture and other Pacific Northwest Indigenous communities. Now, two brothers from the Lummi Nation, who are alumni of the program, have plans to revitalize it. Free and Raven Borsey were recently awarded the 2024 Bullitt Prize by Washington Conservation Action, a $100,000 award. They will use a portion of their award to restart and improve the program, combining traditional ecological knowledge, youth empowerment, conservation and environmental justice to help unify and empower native youth. The Bellingham Herald.

In Oklahoma, environmental justice activists are fighting to protect the state’s waterways, including the Arkansas and Kiamichi River, from pollution. Cheyenne Skye Branscum, an educator, leader and Citizen Potawatomi Nation member, reminds us that the victims of environmental injustice are often children, who are left to play in the polluted environments resulting from corporate exploitation. “I realize this is why the Creator gave the task of speaking for the Water to the kwek [the women of the Potawatomi],” Branscum writes. “Who better to protect the entity that will nourish the future of children than the mothers of the present?” Sierra.

For Miko Brandon, gardening represents a unique intersection of his identity, healthy living and an appreciation for nature. Brandon, a citizen of the Chickasaw Nation and young person, stewards a small garden, which sits on a plot of land his family has called home for over six generations. “I think you gain a deeper understanding of the value of our land when you help cultivate it,” says Brandon. He grows fruits and vegetables for sustenance, but also to attract pollinators and keep traditional food-growing practices alive — particularly important as climate change threatens Indigenous communities’ agricultural systems and access to traditional foods and culturally significant plants. ICT News.

Park departments across Detroit, Michigan, and nearby municipalities are making internal changes to center equity in their operations. At Detroit Parks & Recreation, a new internal equity metric is helping staff identify the parks most in the need of investment. The metric takes into account neighborhoods’ population demographics, number of residents within a 10-minute walking distance, health levels and environmental risk factors. Higher scoring parks are prioritized for investment. Other park systems are institutionalizing regular DEI training sessions for employees and creating more accessible hiring processes. MetroMode.

In the largest study of its kind, researchers polled almost 16,000 American participants, ages 16 to 25, about the climate. They found a consensus among young people that spans the political divide: 96% of Democrats and 74% of Republicans report worrying about “the impact of climate change on people and the planet.” And youth are eager to discuss their thoughts. “Over 70% of respondents said that they want the dangers to be talked about, they want other people to talk about how they feel about climate change, and they want … older generations to try to understand how they feel,” reports lead study author Eric Lewandowski, PhD. The Cool Down.

The 2024 United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP29) is being held November 11-22, and youth delegates from around the world are making their voices heard. 20 young leaders from South Asia are advocating for the inclusion of children’s needs in updated “Nationally Determined Contributions,” the agreements made by each country under the Paris Agreement. “If world leaders say we are the leaders of today — not just tomorrow — then why aren’t we at the table now, shaping the ambitions for our future?” asked 24-year-old Bodh Maathura, UNICEF Sri Lanka Youth Advocate. “Young people must be recognized as partners.” UNICEF.

In January 2023, communities across Kosovo experienced catastrophic flooding. A recent analysis of the country has revealed that environmental degradation and air pollution, exacerbated by climate change, are threatening children’s basic rights to health, education and safety — an unfortunate reality for children around the world. Around 50% of children in Europe and Central Asia face frequent heat waves, and the survival and healthy development of about 1 billion children is at risk worldwide, since children are particularly vulnerable to the effects of climate change. In this op-ed, leaders share the results of UNICEF’s analysis, arguing that lessons from Kosovo demonstrate the importance of prioritizing child-focused climate policies worldwide. UNICEF.

The Idaho Fish and Game Commission recently voted to approve a program that will give free fishing licenses to youth in foster care and foster parents in 2025. “Idaho’s great outdoors should be accessible to all, especially foster youth who can find solace and adventure in nature,” said Benn Brocksome, chairman and founder of Idaho Sportsmen, Access & Opportunity, the advocacy group funding the initiative. “By covering these costs, we’re making sure that these young people and their foster families have a chance to enjoy the outdoors, connect with each other and create lasting memories.” Dailyfly.

In this op-ed, Amara Ifeji, Young Explorer and internationally awarded climate justice leader, reflects on the role of environmental education in her childhood, and later, in her career. “When I engaged with the world around me, I was compelled to protect and preserve it from the threats it faced — because no one wants to see that which they love destroyed,” writes Ifeji. She emphasizes the need for diversity in the environmental movement — a space marred by a history of exclusion and white supremacy — and offers advice to organizations on how to equitably engage young people in climate justice. Nonprofit Quarterly.

After Claudia Galeno-Sánchez and her daughter raised a caterpillar in their home and watched it transform into a Black Swallowtail butterfly, Galeno-Sánchez was inspired to create a butterfly habitat in her backyard as a way to teach her children about nature during the pandemic — but her vision quickly expanded. Now, she and a group of motivated neighbors calling themselves “Mujeres Por Espacios Verdes” (or “Women for Green Spaces”) work to expand green spaces in Chicago neighborhoods. “I want to help care for nature. I want to help leave them — their children, their grandchildren — a world with more trees, a world with more flowers, more plants,” Galeno-Sánchez said. 5Chicago.

A study by biologist Yuval Itescu reveals that urban cemeteries, often overlooked, play a crucial ecological role by supporting biodiversity within cities. His research found that cemeteries host more native species than landscaped city parks, making them important havens for plants and animals. Cemeteries can be important areas of respite for humans too — one study found that they can be up to 5.4 F cooler than their urban surroundings. Yet traditional burial practices pose environmental challenges due to the toxic materials used in embalming and coffins. As green burial options expand, cemeteries may increasingly serve as sanctuaries for both nature and memory. Sierra.

Are you a city leader or concerned individual interested in investing in climate resilience and community health? The city of Dearborn, Michigan, located at the tail end of a major river system, faces significant challenges with flooding, stormwater management and environmental quality. Jordan Twardy, the city’s Director of Economic Development, shares four key steps that Dearborn took to leverage green schoolyards as long-term investments in the community’s physical, mental and environmental health. CitiesSpeak.

Children today spend less time outdoors due to urbanization, safety concerns and digital entertainment, a trend termed “the extinction of experience.” Many children are exceeding recommended guidelines for screen time, which is replacing time that could be spent outdoors. However, some studies show that technology can help reconnect children with nature. Tools like digital cameras, sound recorders and community science apps enable children to notice and engage with the natural world. Examples of tech-infused nature-based activities include photography projects and augmented reality apps that foster curiosity and learning. The Conversation.

In the U.K.’s first national survey of play in preschool-aged children, researchers found that girls play outside less than boys, starting at age two. “It’s concerning that at age two, we’re already seeing these differences in the time that boys and girls play outdoors in nature,” explains study co-lead Dr. Kathryn Hesketh, University of Cambridge. “Given the link between playing outdoors and physical activity, girls may already be at a disadvantage very early in life.” University of Exeter.

During an October heat wave, Fitch Mountain Preschool adapted play hours to keep kids cool, starting with morning play outside under shady green structures before moving indoors as the day warmed up. Located in Healdsburg, California, where wildfire evacuations are increasingly frequent, restructuring playtime is only one part of their strategy to mitigate the impacts of climate change on their students. The preschool “builds green muscle memories” by teaching students about seasonal changes, composting and how to stay cool in extreme heat. “When you look at what these kids have experienced during the first six years of their lives, the world is very unpredictable, dangerous and scary,” said Susan Gilmore. “It’s really about helping them build resiliency.” KQED.

Playing in mud is a great way for children to connect with nature, yet fewer and fewer U.K. children experience the delight. “​The decline in children getting muddy is part of our risk aversion,” explains Dr. Helen Dodd, a professor of child psychology at the University of Exeter. One primary school in England is challenging the trend by introducing mud play zones, where children wear waterproof “active uniforms” to dig and play in a “mud café.” Despite some concerns about the dirt, parents are largely supportive: “We’d rather do extra laundry and see them thrive,” one parent commented. The Guardian.

While on a road trip across the country, twin sisters Keisha and Tarsha Scovens discovered a passion for the outdoors. But as the women continued to pursue outdoor experiences, they noticed few people of color doing the same. In response, the twins founded the Philadelphia-based nonprofit “Let’s Go Outdoors,” which engages local communities of color in outdoor experiences, including family-friendly programs and school-based learning. Keisha emphasized the importance of introducing kids from urban areas to nature, saying, “They’re getting it so much earlier, and that’s the impact. That’s the important part for us.” The Philadelphia Inquirer.

In Southeast Michigan, rich partnerships between parks and schools provide students in underserved communities with hands-on science experiences. Since 2022, the Huron-Clinton Metroparks’ Supplemental Science program has delivered free weekly lessons at John R. King Academy, inspiring curiosity through engaging, interactive science. Many local parks also offer free or reduced-price field trips, while others train teachers to deliver curriculum units focused on Michigan’s environment and economy in their classrooms. “I’m really excited to see what we’re going to be able to do for schools and teachers,” reflects Mary Blumka of Oakland County Parks. MetroMode.

In Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Milwaukee Public Schools are transforming traditional schoolyards into green, biodiverse spaces through Reflo’s Green and Healthy Schools program, in partnership with the Milwaukee Metropolitan Sewerage District. This year, six schools unveiled five new green schoolyards designed to manage stormwater, create play and learning areas, and prevent sewage overflow into Lake Michigan. Highlights include microforests and natural landscapes in place of pavement — check out the inspiring before-and-after photos! OnMilwaukee.

The Atlanta Community School Parks Initiative transforms playgrounds into play spaces that spark joy and promote outdoor learning. In this radio broadcast, host Rose Scott talks with Dr. Robin Christian, the principal at Barack and Michelle Obama Academy, one of six Atlanta Public Schools slated to receive a new nature play installation thanks to the initiative. Scott also talks to nonprofit partners of the initiative, Sarah Milligan-Toffler, the president and CEO of the Children & Nature Network, and Lysa Ratliff, the CEO of KABOOM!. WABE.

While Aisha O’Neil’s childhood in Zion National Park fostered her love for nature, she never learned much about climate change in school. When she finally did, it was through the news, which she found “dramatically horrifying.” In response, she co-founded “Good Trouble,” a group that helped pass a bipartisan bill in Colorado creating a “seal of climate literacy” which high school graduates could earn on their diplomas. This initiative encourages students to learn about climate science, climate justice and solutions. O’Neil emphasizes that empowering students with knowledge and action plans, rather than fear, is essential for addressing climate change and building a sustainable future. The Hechinger Report.

Donna Posont’s “Birding by Ear and Beyond” program makes nature accessible to the blind and visually impaired through bird songs and outdoor education. Through the program, Posont — who is blind herself — has empowered others to engage with the environment, fostering their independence and self-confidence. Outside of monthly meetings, where she teaches program participants species identification and other ecological concepts, Posont has taught at libraries, science camps and online. She would love to inspire a younger generation to expand the model across the country and make it their own. Audubon Magazine.

After being diagnosed with lupus, Kisha Jarrett’s love for adventure was limited by pain and fatigue. But in 2019, Jarrett was reminded of the fearless child she once was on a spur-of-the-moment glacier hike in Iceland. Despite setbacks, she found healing through community and remains determined to continue exploring. “I feel like myself in nature, even when my body doesn’t feel like my own,” reflects Jarrett. “And to get to that place of peace makes it all worth it to me.” PopSugar.

Students at Lovin Elementary School in Lawrenceville, Georgia, are leading by example through a student-run composting program. Known as “Food Waste Warriors,” the students collect fruit and vegetable scraps from their fellow students during lunchtime to compost. Under the guidance of their teacher, they weigh the food waste, practice math skills by adding up measurements, balance their compost ratios and turn the compost pile. The finished compost nourishes the school’s garden, and the students use other scraps to feed the chickens on campus — both of which produce food for students and staff to enjoy. Unopened food is placed on the school’s “Share Table” to combat food insecurity among students. ABC News.

States like Florida, Indiana and Louisiana are enforcing school cell phone bans, driven by concerns about smartphones fueling youth mental health challenges and disrupting education. Many districts are implementing programs requiring students to lock up or stow their devices during school hours. Experts highlight links between excessive phone use, attention issues and social-emotional development challenges. While phones are essential for communication and safety, the new restrictions aim to help students engage more with learning and peers, promoting healthier habits in a tech-dominated world. The Hub.

Check out this two-minute video on Shreyovi Mehta, a 10-year-old wildlife photographer from Faridabad, India. One of Mehta’s photos was recently featured in the Wildlife Photographer of the Year awards hosted by the Natural History Museum of London. Mehta has been capturing images of wildlife with her parents since she was 6 years old, highlighting the power of both connecting with nature at an early age, and engaging with nature as a family. You can find a collection of Mehta’s favorite photos here. PBS News Hour.

As cell phone bans spread across classrooms in Ontario and beyond, there’s more at stake than just improving focus. Excessive screen time can harm children’s health by decreasing attention span, affecting vision and increasing the risk of mental health challenges. A solution? Nature. In this opinion piece, Medical Officer of Health Dr. Thomas Piggott and 2022 C&NN Inspiring Leader Jacob Rodenburg explain that encouraging kids to spend time outdoors can boost mood, immune systems and overall well-being. “Let us think not just about decreasing screen time, but about inspiring a love of nature in children,” they write. “With some luck, nature can help to re-occupy the space that screen time has stolen.” kawarthaNOW.

As global climate change continues to drive rising temperatures, there’s increased urgency in the U.S. to replace heat-absorbing pavement with greenery in the approximately 2 million acres of public school land. School districts, cities and states are increasingly embracing this change, driven by research showing that asphalt play areas intensify the health risks associated with extreme heat. However, the cost of these renovations and funding disparities between school districts can be a barrier to greening schoolyards. Partnerships with organizations like Green Schoolyards America, the Trust for Public Land and the Children & Nature Network can help. The Washington Post.

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) is partnering with family podcast company CumbreKids to connect Spanish-speaking children and families with nature through two conservation-focused podcasts, Cráneo and Camaleón. These podcasts, featuring USFWS experts and kid co-hosts, explore science, animals and plants, encouraging curiosity about the natural world and inspiring future conservation leaders globally. Since launching in July, the collaboration has reached over 100,000 families across the U.S., Spain and Latin America, with more than 23,000 episode plays. U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

A study by England’s University of Exeter found that “green social prescribing” — referring people with mental health challenges to nature-based activities like gardening, conservation and outdoor therapies — can improve happiness and reduce anxiety. Study participants reported feeling “joyful” and “calm” after engaging in these activities. Researchers say the initiative is a promising way to support mental health, but further investment from policymakers is needed to facilitate green social prescribing by expanding access to nature. BBC.

In England, the New Horizons project at Bristol’s All Aboard Watersports Center introduces 10- to 20-year-olds to sailing, fostering connection among youth by providing new experiences on the water as a community. Beyond sailing, the initiative focuses on building life skills like leadership, time management and persistence. Organizers of the project emphasize the importance of these experiences in boosting confidence and inspiring young people, especially those without prior access to such resources. BBC.

In Dearborn, Michigan, Salina Elementary and Salina Intermediate schools will enhance their campuses with green, nature-based spaces as part of a $425,000 project. Funded by donations, in-kind support and a grant from the Children & Nature Network, the initiative aims to connect students to their environment through nature-based learning and play. Planned improvements include a new kindergarten green schoolyard space, outdoor classrooms and more trees. School staff will also be trained on how to incorporate green schoolyards into their classrooms and curriculums. Fox 2 Detroit.

In many rural areas of the U.S., students often lack access to advanced courses or career training. However, nine school districts in southwest Colorado are changing that. Since 2020, they’ve pooled resources and partnered with community members to provide students with unique experiences in fields ranging from environmental science to building trades. Nearly 900 students have explored careers connected to nature, with many participating in college-level courses or internships. These programs are helping more rural students access college and high-paying jobs, while fostering connections to their communities. The Hechinger Report.

Since 2019, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, has been on a mission to replace asphalt-heavy schoolyards with educational green spaces. The city’s secret? A close partnership between the Milwaukee Metropolitan Sewerage District and Milwaukee nonprofit Reflo. By incorporating landscape design elements like bioswales (vegetated depressions in the land) and native plants, these play spaces double as green stormwater management infrastructure. Quotes from the article highlight the fantastic opportunity that Milwaukee’s partnership model presents for peer learning. Urban Milwaukee.

During Ireland’s annual Heritage Week, a nine-day celebration of Ireland’s natural, built and cultural heritage, “Wild Child Day” will feature nature-based events hosted across the country. “Kids are being bombarded with this idea that they must protect nature and be sustainable, so on one hand they are worried about nature – but on the other hand, a lot of them don’t really have a connection with it,” says Meabh Boylan, a biodiversity officer. Wild Child Day aims to build this emotional bond, combating “nature-deficit disorder” as described by Richard Louv, and inspiring the next generation of environmental stewards. The Irish Times.

After feeling shocked by the barren, “scorched earth” of her children’s elementary schoolyard, Lois Brink formed the Learning Landscapes program to design and convert Denver’s schoolyards into more vibrant, nature-filled spaces. Between 2000 and 2012, the alliance converted every public elementary school campus in Denver to a green schoolyard, totaling 306 acres. Key takeaways from the project formed the basis of a study on the economic benefits of green schoolyards, which found that for every $1 invested in green schoolyards, a more than $3 return is possible — not just for students, but for the community at large. Grist.

When partners unite to promote equitable access to nature, anything is possible. More than 70 U.S. communities have formed cross-sector partnerships through the Nature Everywhere Communities initiative to enhance access to nature. By participating in the self-paced Nature Everywhere Communities Action Challenge, your city can also gain recognition and benefit from tools, resources and a peer learning network that shares successful strategies to improve children’s development through nature-based solutions. CitiesSpeak.

The Nature Everywhere Communities initiative is transforming cities across the U.S., from creating green schoolyards in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, to integrating nature-based learning into Austin, Texas’ early childcare centers. A partnership between the Children & Nature Network, the National League of Cities and KABOOM!, the Nature Everywhere Communities initiative assists communities looking to expand nature access. “We believe that, when implemented equitably and systemically, opportunities for nature-based learning, exploration and play can help address myriad systemic challenges that face youth and communities,” explains Abbe Ewell Longstein, KABOOM!’s associate director of program management. Next City.

Across the U.S., young people are filing lawsuits to hold governments and companies accountable for their role in climate change. Many Indigenous youth are at the center of these cases and report feeling a responsibility to protect their land, cultural resources and ways of living. For example, youth plaintiffs sued the state of Hawai’i to agree to decarbonize its transportation system. Indigenous youth and environmental groups challenged the oil and gas industry in New Mexico. And Native youth plaintiffs in a Montana Supreme Court case say that worsening wildfires and warmer days make it harder to practice cultural traditions. “I’m from this place, it’s my main kuleana to take care of it like my kupuna have in the past,” said one youth plaintiff, referring to her ancestors. Grist.

In British Columbia, Canada, the Warrior Program is fostering leadership skills in Nuu-chah-nulth youth through traditional forms of mariculture — the farming of marine organisms for food. Guided by mentors and elders, the youth-led program helps Indigenous boys and men ages 9 to 25 reconnect with their cultural heritage by building, restoring and monitoring ancient clam gardens — a practice that has sustained coastal First Nations communities for generations. “Projects like the clam garden help us to teach people in the community how to be self-sufficient for the future,” one youth leader reflects. Mongabay.

The average American spends nearly 90% of their time indoors, yet research shows that getting outside offers significant benefits. Sarah Milligan-Toffler, president and CEO of the Children & Nature Network, explains that kids living in greener environments have higher self-esteem, and long-term exposure to nature reduces their levels of stress and anxiety. In a world where childhood is increasingly structured and screen time is rampant, integrating outdoor play and nature into daily life is more essential than ever. The Washington Post.

Three teenagers from the Alaska Youth Stewards work crew are restoring a stream decimated by the logging of old-growth trees on Prince of Wales Island in Southeast Alaska. As part of the Sustainable Southeast Partnership, the Alaska Youth Stewards gain job experience and leadership skills through natural and cultural stewardship projects. The Indigenous-led partnership aims to rebuild healthy economies and ecosystems in Southeast Alaska through initiatives supporting food security, energy independence, sustainable management of forests and fisheries and the building of a localized economy. The ultimate goal? To create a better future for the next generations through the reconnection of community, culture, people and place. The Nature Conservancy.

In recent years, the climate emergency has spurred global youth activism, exemplified by the School Strikes for Climate movement. Research indicates that adults in Australia and New Zealand generally support including children’s views in environmental decision-making. Surveys from the 2020 International Social Survey Programme show that most adults favor 11–14-year-olds and 15–18-year-olds having a say in government environmental policies. “Children and young people deserve to have their concerns heard and influence policies that will greatly impact their future lives,” write the study authors. The Conversation.

At Harvest Hope Farm in Moorhead, Minnesota, smartphones and tablets aren’t allowed. Instead, time flies as summer campers immerse themselves in agriculture, gardening and animal care. While the harvest season eventually ends, the knowledge that campers gain has a habit of cropping back up: “They learn that information, and then weeks or months later they’re still sharing that information with me,” reflects one parent. “It really has stuck with them and been deeply woven into our lives at home.” Project Optimist.

From installing microplastic filters in campus washing machines to creating zero-waste theater productions, college students are championing green initiatives on campuses around the U.S. Their efforts are part of a broader approach in higher education known as “campus as a living lab,” where professors seek to simultaneously educate students, provide valuable hands-on experience and contribute to a campus’s sustainability goals. The Hechinger Report.

Looking for ways to reverse the trend of an indoor childhood? In this opinion piece, Sherry Magill offers a compelling example of how you can advocate for a greener childhood in your community. Whether through an op-ed in your local paper or a conversation with elected officials, consider promoting initiatives — like green schoolyards — that aim to make nature more accessible to youth nationwide. Jax Today.

Smoky Mountains National Park now provides off-road wheelchairs and a range of adaptive activities, allowing people with disabilities to explore the park in ways previously impossible. Community response has been positive, serving as a reminder of the need for all-terrain wheelchairs, adaptive programming and other accessible features in park systems across the country. “We want the public to understand that Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a place for all people, including people with mobility needs,” reports Park Ranger Katie Corrigan. Smoky Mountain News.

In this broadcast, learn about how a growing number of Oregon tribes are indigenizing therapy options by utilizing equine therapy for youth struggling on reservations and in foster care. During these programs, youth participants learn about the markings of horses, horse terminology, and choose to either lead or ride a horse. The programs are based around cultural reclamation, aiming to return to the reciprocal relationships that many tribes had, and still have, with horses today. Oregon Public Broadcasting.

As a parent, you’re hardwired to want to minimize risks for your children — but as the Canadian Paediatric Society emphasizes, unstructured outdoor play and “risky play” are essential to children’s development. In this article, Dr. Stephanie Liu, a family physician and mother, acknowledges her own fear surrounding risky play, but notes that studies show such play helps children recognize and evaluate challenges, ultimately fostering resilience and critical thinking. She encourages parents to balance safety with allowing kids to explore boundaries, which will promote children’s growth and well-being. PopSugar.

In Greeley, Colorado, the Weld County Department of Public Health and Environment’s OutdoorRx program promotes the benefits of spending time in nature as a health intervention. Studies show that time spent outdoors reduces blood pressure, anxiety and stress while improving cognitive function and cardiovascular health. Even brief periods outside, like sitting in your frontyard, can enhance well-being and counteract the negative effects of excessive screen time. So, join Greeley in getting your Vitamin N(ature) this summer. UCHealth Today.

In Detroit, Michigan, parks are becoming essential hubs for advancing health equity, particularly in communities facing significant health challenges like high blood pressure, diabetes, obesity and food insecurity. New programs are utilizing these intergenerational and accessible green spaces to offer free fitness activities, fresh produce distributions and accessible facilities to promote healthy behaviors. Metromode.

As climate change progresses, extreme heat poses a threat to children, teachers and staff in schools that cannot meet the increasing infrastructure demands needed to keep their buildings cool. Outside of the classroom, school grounds often lack shade and are built on asphalt that increases surface temperature. This report contains five recommendations that local, state and federal governments should take to protect the well-being of children, who are particularly vulnerable to extreme heat. Center for American Progress.

In this article, mother Jennifer Chamberlain details her family’s camping trips with her daughter Claire, who has cystic fibrosis, highlighting the careful planning required due to the risks posed by bacteria. Although her family’s camping trips mean taking the time to secure extra medications, research safe activities and prepare for unexpected challenges, it’s worth it to Chamberlain — and Claire. “Seeing her joy in nature helps me push through the anxieties I have,” she writes. Cystic Fibrosis News Today.

Cupcake lovers and pizza fans have a new reason to appreciate snakes.During a recent event at the Wareham Free Public Library, wildlife educator Joy Marzolf showcased an array of reptiles, including an eastern rat snake — a species that helps control rodent populations and is thus crucial for the health of crops like grains, which are used in all types of foods. Enthusiastic youngsters got hands-on experience with the snakes, and their reaction reminds us of why free, nature-based programming in libraries is important! Wareham Week.

In Wisconsin, a growing number of Ojibwe youth are learning to spearfish – a traditional method of harvesting fish like walleye. Spearfishing helps connect youth to their ancestors and to a sense of shared responsibility for the land. Jason Bisonette, a longtime spearfisher, noted that although his children never knew their great-grandparents, spearfishing allows them to “do the same things that they did, and on the same body of water that they did…They’re able to build their connection through feeling the cold and smelling the water and smelling the air.” Associated Press News.

A new Colorado law will allow outdoor preschools to accept state child care subsidies, making them more accessible to low-income families. This unique form of early education draws on research that demonstrates improved mental well-being and confidence in kids who learn outside. Colorado follows Washington as the second state to license outdoor preschools, with other states considering similar measures. CPR News.

Created as a community space for people of Asian American, Native Hawaiian and/or Pacific Islander (AANHPI) heritage, Outdoor Asian is on a mission to help people connect outdoors. The organization hosts beginner-friendly outdoor events — including group cultural events, such as a recent trip to the Japanese American Exclusion Memorial in Bainbridge Island, Washington. “It is important that we understand this history and connect it to injustices that are happening today,” said Saira Shahid. “AANHPI communities and other communities of color have been historically excluded from the outdoors. [Outdoor Asian] aims to remove these barriers and ensure that members of these communities have an opportunity to experience the joy of being outdoors.” International Examiner.

While outdoor play offers numerous benefits, summer heat makes it particularly difficult for children. A recent study at eight day cares in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, recorded temperatures and documented time spent outside. The study found that “shade reduced temperatures by an average of 6 degrees — increasing outdoor playtime by an average of 14 minutes.” So, let’s add “playtime” to the long list of reasons to plant more trees! The Allegheny Front.

In Hawai’i, the resolution of Navahine F. v. Hawai’i Department of Transportation recognizes the constitutional right of youth to a life-sustaining climate. The case comes from young climate activists, who sued the State of Hawai’i and the Hawai’i Department of Transportation two years ago in an effort to curb the transport sector’s high levels of climate pollution and hold them accountable to the state’s net-negative carbon emissions goals. The trial marks the second significant victory in a youth-led constitutional climate lawsuit in the U.S., following Held v. State of Montana. Sierra Magazine.

We love this piece, written by Ben Jealous, executive director of the Sierra Club and former president and CEO of the NAACP. He describes the healing power of nature, as well as its power in challenging stereotypes and providing a welcoming place of peace for everyone. Seattle Medium.

Growing up, Jessie Ratcliff (she/her/he/him) navigated the challenges of being a Black transgender, nonbinary kid by finding solace in nature, taking part in trail restoration projects during high school. She describes traveling to Maui to help build stairs within an extinct volcano, a formative experience that forged her multilayered identity as a minister, person of color, transgender person and environmentalist. “I believe that caring for the Earth is an expression of reverence for the divine,” he writes. EarthBeat.

The Rainbow Conservation Crew, the nation’s first LGBTQ+ youth conservation corps, works on trail maintenance and environmental projects in Oregon and Washington. The crew provides a safe space for queer youth to gain conservation skills, learn wilderness basics and develop their leadership. “What I think is amazing about having identity-specific crews is that a lot of people—including myself, when I was 16—are terrified to learn wilderness skills while having to deal with homophobia or transphobia,” explains Mel Hanby, the group’s leader-in-training. “In [the Rainbow Crew] we don’t have to worry about that.” National Geographic.

Drawing parallels between the environmental movement and the LGBTQ+ movement, this article highlights leaders who advocated for both causes, ranging from historic figures Harvey Milk and Rachel Carson to modern-day activists such as Pattie Gonia and Rose Marcario. Triumvirate Environmental.

Ubuntu is a shared African cultural ethos meaning, “I am because you are/we are.” This article by social justice leader and Climate Breakthrough awardee Denise Fairchild identifies the cooperative spirit of Ubuntu as central to the Juneteenth story, and an optimistic alternative to western individualism — a mindset that has created climate change. Mitigating climate change requires a major cultural shift, and Ubuntu is one such alternative. “It reminds us that we can’t thrive if the planet is dying. We can’t thrive without community.” Fairchild points out that similar beliefs can be found in other cultures, inviting us to draw on these cultural roots to restore the commons and mitigate climate change. Common Dreams.

While climate change poses a unique risk to queer youth, environmental justice has an effect on the broader LGBTQ+ community, youth and adults alike. “The LGBTQ+ population is at more risk to environmental challenges because, just like many other marginalized populations, they face social, economic and health inequities and disparities,” explains Leo Goldsmith, senior climate and health specialist at the U.S. Global Change Research Program. The Climate Reality Project.

This charming story takes readers on a tour of a newly minted children’s garden in South Carolina, complete with vibrant photographs. Truly a labor of love, dedicated volunteers worked tirelessly to transform two acres of vacant soil into nine themed gardens, including a sensory garden, pollinator garden, an outdoor classroom, bird sanctuary, a reading garden, a Peter Rabbit-themed “Mr McGregor’s Garden,” and a child-sized version of a traditional farm. Columbia Metropolitan.

This article by Eric Knepp, Parks Superintendent at the City of Madison, Wisconsin, provides a fantastic overview of the Nature Everywhere Communities initiative, led in partnership with the Children & Nature Network, National League of Cities and KABOOM!. As a Nature Everywhere Community, Madison is a wonderful example of a cross-sector team, with representatives from local government, Aldo Leopold Nature Center, and Olbrich Botanical Gardens, among others. He also extends a warm welcome to his city, for those attending the Nature Everywhere Conference this May 28-31. CitiesSpeak.

Hungry for more data? Read this story to learn about the U.S. government’s new standards for collecting disaggregated race and ethnicity data — a pivot from the current standard, which lumps multiple ethnic groups under a single “Asian” checkbox. You can also check out AAPIData.com (one of the key players in the campaign for disaggregated data), for more nerding out on the numbers. The 19th.

“Bush kinders,” or nature preschools, are becoming increasingly popular in Australia. This article makes the case that bush kinders can benefit from curriculum frameworks and educator training. It also offers helpful tips so educators get the most out of their sessions in the outdoors. The Sector.

In Pennsylvania, a donation of 170 pieces of adaptive bikes and strollers is helping children of all abilities enjoy nature. Each item has been customized for the needs of each child, and the children even picked out the colors of their equipment. One mother described how the stroller will allow her child to visit more places: “She wants to go fishing,” she explained. “Then we’re going to go on a whole bunch of adventures this summer… She loves nature.” WNEP.

In 2016, Mikah Meyer made history as the first person to visit all 419 U.S. national parks in a single journey. He’s since been honored as the first openly gay man to be featured in an outdoor recreation campaign and continues to be an advocate for the LGBTQ+ communities’ experience in the outdoors. Meyer’s new 16-minute short film about his journey with four other openly gay men on a guided rafting trip down Utah’s Green River powerfully depicts the magic that happens when people feel free to fully express themselves. “These river trips with queer people are extremely special because it feels so much safer,” says one of the trip participants. “You can be yourself. You don’t have to put up an act. You don’t have to hold back.” OARS.

We love this compelling commentary by Jackie Goldberg, president of the Los Angeles Unified School District Board of Education. She describes the desolation of LA schoolyards during hot days (which are becoming increasingly common) and makes the case for green schoolyards — not just for students, but for their communities. “Extreme weather is our new normal,” she says, “and for the sake of kids in this state, our schools must adapt to it.” EdSource.

In a recent study from the University of South Australia, researchers explored the impact of nature play areas versus manufactured play spaces on children’s development. They found that children aged 3 to 5 demonstrated more imagination and social interaction in nature play areas, where they spent over half their time when given the choice between the two spaces. The Sector.

Graduate student and educator Ary Amaya’s work bridges academia and Indigenous wisdom to ensure that Native ecology drives local land management. Amaya spearheads an Indigenous-led reforestation initiative spanning 27 acres in Los Angeles, California, partnering with local students to take ground observations, monitor newly planted trees and measure canopy coverage. “These students are helping us think about how we as Indigenous people not only reforest and reenvision what ecological restoration looks like in the city,” Amaya explains, “but also how that’s rooted in Indigenous sovereignty and self-determination.” UCLA Newsroom.

Across the U.S., access to safe, welcoming green spaces is disproportionately distributed. Discriminatory land and housing policies, as well as other methods of systemic segregation, have excluded Black communities, Indigenous communities and other people of color from public lands and natural spaces. “Kids experience and navigate life through play, and not having access to great places to play is detrimental to their full development,” explains Lysa Ratliff, CEO of KABOOM!. “We know what we need to do. We just need to build more playgrounds and parks for our kids.” The Grio.

While hiking in Idaho, journalist and mom Tracy Ross confronted both the difficulties of raising children in the age of screens and the looming threat of climate change. In this heartfelt piece, Ross explores how time outside has shaped her family and how she hopes to inspire her youngest daughter to connect with nature in a world where cell phones reign — a sentiment echoed in global initiatives like Screen-Free Week, which encourages families to step away from screens to experience more peace, connection and fun. Vox.

Despite the well-documented benefits of nature, many face social, structural and systemic barriers to accessing green spaces. Plus, camping, dirt and mosquitos don’t always sound like a fun time to everyone — we get it! In this article, discover how to find a personalized version of connecting with nature that suits you best. “Nature is all around us, even in the most urban places in the world,” explains Yvette Stewart of Audubon Texas. “If people want to start tuning into it, the best thing to do is just pause outside.” Vox.

Nature access is a matter of public health. In Oregon, start-up NatureQuant has aggregated dozens of factors into a new measurement they call the NatureScore, which provides a snapshot of the amount and quality of nature in neighborhoods across the U.S. – thereby representing geographic access to nature’s health benefits. In this article, interactive maps and data visualizations reveal the inequitable distribution of nature along class, race, income and education levels. A better understanding of these disparities comes with the opportunity for positive change. “The best way to boost a city’s NatureScore is to plant trees,” columnist Harry Stevens explains. Washington Post.

As rates of anxiety and depression among youth continue to rise, nature emerges as a powerful ally. Studies show that spending time in green spaces improves well-being, memory and social connections while reducing stress and ADHD symptoms — highlighting the urgent need for fair access to nature. “We would be remiss not to provide equitable access to all kids,” reports Cathy Jordan, Children & Nature Network’s director of research, “especially those who have the most to gain.” American Psychiatric Association.

We love this article’s practical, real-life advice to help address common barriers to outdoor learning. Though the piece is written with teachers in mind, we think the tips could be helpful for guardians and practitioners, too. We Are Teachers.

In this evocative piece by Scottish poet John Burnside, he muses on the wonder that can be found in nearby nature, both by children and grown-ups alike. He quotes conservationist Rachel Carson, who wrote, “If I had influence with the good fairy who is supposed to preside over the christening of all children, I should ask that her gift to each child in the world be a sense of wonder so indestructible that it would last throughout life.” New Statesman.

We’re huge fans of Dr. Jane Goodall, whose Roots & Shoots program empowers youth to take action for the environment. On April 3, 2024, Dr. Goodall celebrated her 90th birthday — a milestone occasion marking a lifetime of advocacy and inspiration. In honor of this landmark, 90 female wildlife and landscape photographers from around the world are participating in a print sale of their photographs, with proceeds going to the Jane Goodall Institute. Check out the powerful images in this gallery. The Guardian.

In the U.K., a study funded by the National Trust revealed that children are unable to spend as much time in nature as they wish, with accessibility as the main barrier. Another recent study found that “a third of British children spend less than an hour a day outside in summertime.” The trust is now calling on the U.K. government to live up to previous commitments to ensure every person will have access to a green space within a 15-minute walk of their homes. The Guardian.

Comedian, writer and cultural critic Baratunde Thurston wants Black families to know that nature is a sanctuary all around us — whether you live in a city, the country, or somewhere in-between. In this story, Thurston offers practical tips to make nature accessible for all families, shares a bit about his PBS show, America Outdoors, and offers his philosophy on the relationship that Black people have with the outdoors. “I think about what this land has meant for us. For many, it’s complicated,” he says.”Our blood is in this soil. But all life needs to heal, including Black people as well as the land—because it didn’t ask for this.” Parents.

“As long as you have a green roof over your head, everything will be okay.” So goes Lucy Stott’s adaptation of her grandfather’s mantra. Born of a long line of New Yorkers, Stott was fortunate to have access to a green space via her elementary school’s outdoor classroom – a green roof. In the concrete jungle, green rooftops can provide shade, capture airborne pollutants and reduce rooftop temperatures. Enough green rooftops can even lower citywide ambient temperatures by up to 5°F. In this article, Stott, now in her freshman year of college, shares some of the research behind the benefits of green roofs, as well as her own personal experience. Living Architecture Monitor.

Over the past decade, the Cities Connecting Children to Nature (CCCN) initiative — a joint national partnership between the Children & Nature Network and the National League of CIties — has helped nearly 50 cities across the U.S. to prioritize youth nature connection. A new report conducted by two independent research firms helped quantify the impact of CCCN’s nine years of support in helping cities connect children to nature. Now, the new Nature Everywhere Communities initiative builds upon CCCN’s successes, with the Children & Nature Network, National League of Cities and Kaboom! partnering to advance equitable access to nature everywhere children live, learn and play. CitiesSpeak.

Students around the globe are feeling the effects of climate change, with hotter weather and other climate-related disasters on the uptick. Hotter temperatures have negative effects on students’ test scores. Climate disasters like storms and droughts cause children to leave school and join the workforce early to support their families, while hurricanes and wildfires cause children in higher-income countries to miss school days. Even children exposed to climate disasters in utero can face impacts, with higher rates of ADHD reported among kids whose mothers were pregnant during Hurricane Sandy. On top of all this, researchers predict that climate change will exacerbate existing inequalities in education worldwide. Conversation.

In a beautiful, urgent blend of memoir, ecology and history, Pulitzer Prize-nominated novelist Lydia Millet “urges respect for the staggering interconnectedness of existence.” Balancing grief and wonder, Millet helps us face and process the ecological ruin that we’ve wrought on our planet, our species and those with whom we share our home. She investigates the question, “Where does our childhood love of nature go?”, among other pressing queries. Scientific American.

A kindergarten-only school in Toronto, Canada, has teamed up with a local farming group to introduce little ones and their parents to nature through a community garden. At guided sessions, participants learn about growing carrots and the local ecosystem. The program brings nature’s benefits to residents and restores habitat in a dense urban neighborhood, while providing free organic produce to community members during a time when food can be increasingly hard to afford. CBC.

In Australia this April, Lismore Rainforest Botanic Gardens will host an interactive, theatrical experience designed to inspire and connect children to the natural world. Part theater, part quest and part wacky science field trip, children will embark on a Magic School Bus-esque adventure complete with talking fungi, booming rocks and nests of song, while being prompted to collect clues, solve puzzles, navigate obstacle courses and work collaboratively with each other and the forest to save the environment from disarray. Australian Rural & Regional News.

The Detroit Sugarbush Project reconnects youth of color with nature through Indigenous sugarbush traditions. In Detroit’s Rouge Park, the project invites local students to tap sugar maple trees, harvest sap and make syrup, while learning about Anishinaabe cultural practices. This hands-on experience fosters a deeper connection to the land and builds food sovereignty. The project also emphasizes community-building, resilience and solidarity, particularly between Black and Indigenous communities. “Coming together to do this work is immensely important, not only for the maple trees, but for the land, for our spirits and for the spirits of our ancestors,” said Kaela Wabanimkee-Harris. PBS News.

Women aren’t the only ones leading today’s environmental movement — girls are doing their part, as well. Fourth grader Thaaragai Aarathana has collected 1,000 kg (over 1.1 U.S. tons) of plastic during her dives off the coast of Chennai in India. On her very first dive, she discovered “many beautiful fish — and basically an equal amount of plastic.” So she decided to do something to help. Watch the video to meet Aarathana, her father and the rest of her allies working to clean up marine pollution in their community. DW.

Western Australian nonprofit Nature Play WA works to ensure that children have access to the time and space needed to freely play. In this piece, Nature Play WA CEO Kelsie Prabawa-Sear details the importance of unstructured independent play in the outdoors. Citing academic research on the topic, she notes that many of today’s children are suffering from over-supervision. “If you’re looking for a place to start, I suggest asking the kids what they’d like to do. Ask them what makes them feel free and happy,” she says. West Australian.

Author, ecologist and human-rights journalist Dr. Trish O’Kane found her way to birding and ornithology in an unlikely way: when returning to her home in New Orleans after Hurricane Katrina, she was struck by the resilience of the birds who’d survived the devastation. Now a senior lecturer in ornithology at the University of Vermont, she pairs her college students who have experience birding with elementary students as “bird buddies,” creating opportunities for community-building across age groups. “One of the main goals of my class is to build a flock,” she explains. Revelator.

This article, along with the powerful accompanying video, examines the barriers to winter sports that many Black participants can experience. Organizations like Hoods to Woods and Brown Girl Outdoor World offer supportive communities to help Black, Indigenous and other People of Color enjoy the benefits of outdoor winter recreation. Zeb Powell, the first Black snowboarder to win a gold medal in X Games history, reflects on the movement: “It’s a crazy energy I’ve never seen on the mountain. We are the community. And we can lean on each other to talk about how to grow the sport our way.” ABC News.

A recent review of existing research around the world has found that botanical gardens are the most effective type of green space to mitigate heat during heatwaves — an increasingly common occurrence in today’s global climate. Botanical gardens reduced air temperatures during city heatwaves by an average of 5 degrees Celsius, or 41 degrees Fahrenheit. Wetlands, parks, playgrounds and trees planted along streets also had drastic cooling effects. “By implementing just some of the measures we describe, cities can become more resilient, and their citizens can be healthier and happier too,” explained Prof Prashant Kumar, the lead author of the study. The Guardian.

Late January saw the 12th World Environmental Education Congress in Abu Dhabi, which connects thousands of experts from around the world to share advances in environmental education and education for sustainable development. The International Union for Conservation of Nature’s Commission on Education and Communication held a workshop on Greening School Grounds and Outdoor Learning, with Children & Nature Network staff Jaime Zaplatosch Ehrenberg and Brenda Kessler helping to lead the presentation. IUCN.

Chinese researchers observed fourth-grade students over a semester, during which they participated in weekly activities in a campus garden. The study found that more than 60% of the students had a greater interest in nature after just four months. The garden also helped alleviate their study-related stress. China.org. Read more (Interested in more of the latest research relating to children and nature? Check out our Research Library — with lots of studies coming from China! — and subscribe to our monthly Research Digest.)

This article by DEIJ leader and Avarna Group cofounder aparna rajagopal shares the varied stories of ten AAPI individuals in the environmental movement, noting their similarities and differences. “This piece is not so much a representative cross section of AAPI stories, but rather a set of rhymes woven together to evoke the tapestry that is our identities and environmental connections,” rajagopal explains. Sierra.

In North Carolina, the Woodson Branch Nature School has steadily expanded its programs to include weeklong projects in eco-arts, outdoor regenerative agriculture, outdoor education and forest time. School founder Debbie DeLisle was influenced by Richard Louv’s book “Last Child in the Woods,” and his term “nature-deficit disorder.” “He touched my heart, back in a very important time in my life when my kids were little,” DeLisle said. “They were getting stuck inside too long in front of screens, and it was having a profound effect on the development of the human brain.” Asheville Citizen Times.

Near Yosemite, an art and environmental education camp in Mariposa County, California, draws upon the area’s scenic beauty, abundant riparian species and local Indigenous culture to offer place-based education to TK-6 students. “Our cultural arts are deeply tied to our natural environment,” said Clay Muwin River, a teaching artist at the camp and member of the Northeastern Passamaquoddy and Mi’kmaq nations. Thanks to a collaboration among the local school district, arts council and conservancy, students at the camp make dye from carefully harvested native plants, collect willow stems for basket-weaving and build pottery from clay unearthed from the creek. EdSource.

In this short video, leaders from the Nkwejong Nature Everywhere community team in Lansing, Michigan discuss their participation in the Nature Everywhere Communities initiative. The team plans to expand its network and explore strategies for bringing its programming to scale in Michigan through community mapping, policy advocacy and action planning. The Nkwejong/Lansing team is just one of 19 U.S. communities selected to participate in Nature Everywhere, a roster which includes Sonoma County in California – also featured in a recent local news story of their own. WILX.

A visual design studio and a magazine in Bengaluru, India have joined forces to educate youth on subjects related to nature, climate change and ecological conservation through art workshops. During these sessions, students engage in activities like zine-making, where they explore ecological functions and best practices for engaging with the environment. This approach not only enhances understanding of these concepts but also allows children to practice storytelling and create educational products to share with their peers. Mint Lounge.

Members of Wisconsin’s Ho-Chunk Nation are creating and strengthening a community of environmental stewards through a Master Naturalist program. Run by the University of Wisconsin-Madison’s Office of Extension, the 40-hour immersion program integrates Hoocąk language with lessons on sustainability and foraging. Participants learn how to identify native plants and gain insights from tribal members on local restoration efforts, all while emphasizing generational knowledge and Ho-Chunk culture. NPR.

Since its inception in 2012, the Indigenous Youth Mountain Bike Program has helped build relationships, encourage reconciliation and heal intergenerational trauma for thousands of participants across British Columbia. Now, the inspiring documentary “Dirt Relations: The Story of British Columbia’s Indigenous Youth Mountain Bike Program” is highlighting the nonprofit’s three founders. “It gives you a warm feeling to know, this is so much more than just riding a bike,” an alumni of the program reports. You can find the official trailer for the documentary here. North Shore News.

Across Canada, Black scientists, researchers and environmental advocates are leading initiatives to increase nature connection, protect the environment and fight environmental racism. Though the scope of their work varies, the stories from these advocates are similar in many ways — including the inspiration they draw from each other, the power of mentorship in their work and their shared commitment to building connections that strengthen their communities. The Narwhal.

Rockford, Illinois, is just one example of many cities across the U.S. that are going a step beyond the standards associated with the Americans with Disabilities Act to thoughtfully design and construct truly accessible play spaces. Rockford officials will consult with local families who have children with disabilities to create a universally designed playground, fostering a welcoming and inclusive space for fun and relaxation. CBC News.

While the outdoor recreation participant base is becoming more diverse, a 2022 report revealed that nearly three in four participants are white. Leaders in Minneapolis, Minnesota, are working to expand access to the outdoors and create more opportunities for Minnesotans of color to participate in recreational sports that have historically lacked diversity. “It’s an amazing thing to see other snowboarders out there that look like you,” said a participant of Melanin in Motion, a nonprofit offering low-cost youth and family snowboarding lessons at a local park. Sahan Journal.

The once untethered days of outdoor childhood play have been replaced by organized activities and supervised afterschool programs, with some estimates reporting that unstructured play fell by close to 25% between 1981 and 1997. Free play gives children a chance to increase social skills by working together while also building an internal sense of agency and control, which studies show lessens the risk of anxiety and depression. Researchers are now worried that this loss of unstructured free time in kids’ lives may be taking a toll on the mental health of younger generations. KPBS.

A growing movement in children’s literature emphasizes reconnecting kids with nature and fostering awareness about climate change. Authors and illustrators are exploring various ways to engage children in the difficult subjects surrounding the climate crisis, including using humor or reimagined fairy tales to make climate-related topics more accessible. These stories represent the power of storytelling to ignite curiosity and conversation, as well as to address increasing eco-anxiety among youth. The Hindu.

Faribault, Minnesota, has been chosen to participate in “Nature Everywhere Communities,” a joint initiative of the Children & Nature Network, the National League of Cities and KABOOM! to advance equitable access to nature everywhere children live, learn and play. The community team comprises Faribault’s River Bend Nature Center, Somali Community Resettlement Services, Faribault Parks and Recreation, and the Minnesota State Academies for the Blind and Deaf. Through Nature Everywhere Communities, the Faribault team aims to enhance existing efforts and develop a comprehensive outdoor inclusion and access plan for the community. Faribault Daily News.

New recommendations released by the Canadian Paediatric Society emphasize the importance of unstructured outdoor play for children’s development and their physical and mental health. While evidence-based safety measures like bike helmets, life jackets and safety gates shouldn’t be ignored, pediatricians encourage parents to allow children to take risks, even if it leads to minor cuts and bruises. CBC News.

Even during the chilly months, it’s important to go outside and get your Vitamin N. Brenda Kessler, project manager at the Children & Nature Network, suggests a trip to an ice skating rink as an exciting winter activity. Explore a handful of other winter recommendations to do in Jersey City, New Jersey, both indoor and outdoor, that could inspire adventures in your own hometown! Redfin.

Our connection to the natural world is threatened as never before, and that threat undermines the gifts of nature and democracy. So how do we increase empathy, better understand our ecological community, fight the ongoing loneliness epidemic and water the roots of a healthier democracy? In this piece, Richard Louv, co-founder of the Children & Nature Network, argues that we must learn to love and care for the nature around us, while imagining a future that is not only sustainable but nature-rich, beautiful and healthier for children of all species. The MIT Press Reader.

Globally, youth continue to make their voices heard in the fight for climate justice. In September 2023, youth-led climate activist groups Arizona Youth Climate Coalition and UArizona Divest held a protest in downtown Tucson, Arizona, to demand state government leaders take greater action against climate change. One of the many speakers at the event was 16-year-old Tanish Doshi. “Get into nature – because then you will understand what we’re fighting for,” he said. Arizona Luminaria.

Promoting outdoor education is a bipartisan effort in Minnesota, where lawmakers are advocating for increased access to the state’s five accredited outdoor schools. A proposed bill aims to pilot a grant program specifically designed for outdoor learning. Under the bill, K-12 districts lacking adequate funding for overnight or day-use field trips to outdoor schools can apply for grants, giving all children the chance to learn from Minnesota’s natural world. MPR News.

In the United Kingdom, a noteworthy initiative encourages children to observe and document bird populations in their school surroundings, reporting their findings to the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB). The initiative provides crucial data on the overall well-being of bird populations while promoting environmental awareness and encouraging ecological stewardship. Explore this article for additional tips from RSPB on how to engage children in birdwatching worldwide. The Irish News.

In honor of what would have been John Denver’s 80th birthday, the Life 2.0 Podcast hosted a tribute episode to the great musician, celebrating his environmental advocacy and stewardship. The episode features Cheryl Charles, Ph.D., co-founder, president and CEO emerita of the Children & Nature Network. Hear Cheryl’s reflections on John Denver’s environmental impact, from his efforts to protect the wild areas of Alaska to his testimony in front of Congress on behalf of the National Environmental Education Act, beginning at timestamp 7:35. PodBean.

Indonesian youth are taking a stand against the climate crisis and environmental degradation, urging presidential candidates to better address their concerns. On November 25, thousands gathered in Jakarta to share stories of climate anxiety and emphasize the need for adequate youth representation to address environmental issues. Activists highlighted the threat of rising sea levels and mineral development to their homelands. Asia News Network. Asia News Network.

Groton, Connecticut, is one of 19 communities selected for the Nature Everywhere initiative, led by the Children & Nature Network, National League of Cities and KABOOM!. As part of the two-year process, the town will assess the accessibility of green spaces for those without cars, evaluate school trail accessibility, identify where to prioritize open greenspace acquisition, raise awareness about nature access opportunities and explore the use of social networks to encourage people to engage with nature. Yahoo! News.

An ever-growing body of research continues to identify the numerous mental health benefits of providing children with access to greenspace. Not only does nature reduce the risk of illnesses like depression and dementia, Cathy Jordan, Ph.D. explains that nature has an “equigenic effect,” whereby youth from low socioeconomic backgrounds experience more benefit from access to nature as compared to youth from higher socioeconomic backgrounds. “We would be remiss not to provide equitable access to all kids,” says Dr. Jordan, “especially those who have the most to gain.” Psychiatric News.

The Nevada Division of Outdoor Recreation has been selected to participate in the Nature Everywhere initiative, led by the Children & Nature Network, National League of Cities and KABOOM!. Over the next two years, the Division will integrate outdoor education into the state’s PreK-12 public education system, leveraging the initiative to amplify the impact of existing efforts, guide statewide policies and catalyze community connections. With a focus on equitable access, the initiative will position Nevada as a leader in providing outdoor recreation access for all children. Tahoe Daily Tribune.

Manny Almonte is the founder and CEO of Young Masterminds Initiative, a nonprofit organization that utilizes a combination of peer learning, outdoor education and mentorship programs to teach young men of color the value of brotherhood, community and the pursuit of excellence. Almonte has increased access to the outdoors for countless youth and co-produced the award-winning short film “Wood Hood.” In 2022, we were honored to host Almonte during a screening of the film and are endlessly appreciative of the insights he provided during the event. Congratulations to Manny Almonte on an award well deserved! Young Masterminds Initiative.

In a groundbreaking lawsuit, 18 young people are taking legal action against the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The plaintiffs argue that current environmental regulations overlook young people’s unique vulnerabilities to environmental hazards, and accuse the EPA of failing to adequately protect children from the adverse effects of the climate crisis. “We’re facing constitutional negligence,” said one plaintiff. “The air we breathe has become a casualty of [the EPA’s] opposition.” The outcome of the lawsuit could set crucial precedents for future environmental justice cases. Grist.

South of Montecito Union School in Santa Barbara, California, lies a three-acre parcel of land that has been converted from a dirt lot with a condemned building to a thriving landscape of native plants and hands-on learning spaces. Weekly excursions to the “Nature Lab” allow students to delve into topics such as water conservation, food production and healthy soil through the cultivation of in-ground and hydroponic gardens. The Lab serves as a fantastic example of how schools can engage students in outdoor experiential learning while actively supporting the natural world. Santa Barbara Independent.

Adventures Without Limits is an Oregon-based nonprofit that offers outdoor adventure opportunities for all people, regardless of their ability level, socio-economic status, gender, ethnicity or age. Their diverse programming encompasses everything from adaptive camping trips to ski outings, often including transportation and gear provisions. Jennifer Wilde, director of Outreach and Development, emphasizes the significance of these programs in fostering a sense of belonging in the outdoors: “Some kids that see Mount Hood from their houses haven’t been out in the snow,” she notes. “Our message is: You belong here and we’ll help you.” Willamette Week.

The Tri County Play Collaborative from South Carolina was recently selected to participate in the Nature Everywhere Communities initiative. A partnership between First Step agencies and community cultural institutions, the Collaborative aims to provide historically excluded parents and caregivers of young children with free or low-cost access to immersive experiences that promote early learning and nature connections. Over the next two years, the Collaborative will receive support to continue their work promoting nature connection and accessibility, ultimately developing an outdoor inclusion and access plan. Midlandsbiz.

Two local organizations in Santa Barbara, California, recently received nearly $400,000 in state grants to make local outdoor spaces more accessible to underserved youth. NatureTrack helps low-income K-12 students connect with the outdoors by offering free field trips to Santa Barbara’s trails and beaches, while the Wilderness Youth Project hosts subsidized nature-based programs in local communities. The funding, which comes from California’s $1 billion Outdoors for All Strategy, will help extend these opportunities to more youth and inspire the next generation of environmental stewards. Santa Barbara Independent.

Creating inclusive playspaces goes beyond simply making playgrounds more physically accessible or incorporating resources that target a range of capabilities. A truly inclusive playspace should actively encourage interaction among children with and without disabilities to help break down social barriers, eliminate stigma and foster a more diverse and inclusive community. In Spain, parents are working to promote this message, increase the visibility of functional diversity and challenge policies that marginalize children with disabilities. El País.

In this piece, Ben Jealous, executive director of the Sierra Club, emphasizes the impact of systemic racism and redlining on equitable access to parks and greenspaces. In 2017, 76 percent of people of color residing in low-income communities across the U.S. also lived in nature-deprived areas, creating a significant nature gap that increases physical and mental health risks for children. “Closing the nature gap should be a priority to all of us who have fought long and hard to close the opportunity gaps faced by our kids and our communities,” writes Jealous. Sierra.

The San Antonio, Texas-based nonprofit City Kids Adventures provides non-traditional outdoor recreational opportunities to inner-city youth with more limited access to such activities and spaces. Co-founders Leon and Leticia McNeil lead participants on weekend excursions to fish in the Gulf of Mexico, hike in the Davis Mountains or hunt in South Texas. Additionally, the organization introduces participants to communities outside of Texas by offering multi-week-long summer programs around the country that incorporate both outdoor activities and visits to college campuses. Texas Monthly.

Climate education is an often overlooked, but essential, climate mitigation strategy. Research demonstrates that when classrooms incorporate climate change education, they can powerfully mobilize young people. However, scaling up efforts to incorporate climate education in curriculums must include increased training for teachers and the creation of inclusive lessons that address the social inequalities that lie at the root of the climate crisis. IISD.

The One Water Summit in Tucson, Arizona, concluded with a powerful session featuring Indigenous youth speakers ranging in age from 8 to 21 years old. The speakers asked attendees what they were doing to make more sustainable choices, urged attendees to better include Indigenous knowledge within their work and discussed concerns such as balancing housing development with water conservation. The session highlighted the need for a more inclusive and holistic approach to environmental policies, emphasizing the importance of Indigenous youth perspectives in shaping a sustainable future. KSUT.

In Australia, the decline in children’s exposure to nature due to digital devices and busy lifestyles is being addressed through “bush kinders” programs. These programs, hosted by daycare centers, kindergartens or preschools, take young children into the natural environment for unstructured play. They aim to instill a regular enthusiasm for nature, going beyond occasional park visits to become an integral part of early childhood education, while also providing children with the opportunity to build STEM skills through interactions with the natural environment. The Conversation.

Touching on gender-based violence, climate change’s effects on unhoused queer youth, and increasing rates of discrimination against the LGBTQ+ community, this article is a worthwhile read for a primer on the intersection between climate change and queer youth. Sierra Club.

For a dive into the data, check out this analysis from the Pew Research Center, based on the largest focus group study they have ever conducted — 66 focus groups with 264 total participants. You’ll hear Asian Americans speak about their many varied lived experiences in America. The article is enhanced with quotes and video clips, as well as links to an interactive quote sorting tool and a companion documentary on the topic. Pew Research Center.

We love this piece by Christina Choi, in which she explores how growing up as a Korean American influenced her environmentalism, and how it continues to do so in her current daily life as a parent. Touching on colonization, poverty, war, COVID-19, the model minority myth and the differences between Korean collectivism and American individualism, Choi deftly illuminates the intersectional nature of modern environmentalism. NRDC.

VIn 1987, Charles Lee authored “Toxic Waste and Race,” a landmark study identifying empirical evidence of environmental racism. The report helped launch the environmental justice movement. In this article from the EPA blog, Lee reflects on the history of the environmental justice movement, his role in it and how his identity as a Chinese American intersects with his work. Environmental Protection Agency’s Perspectives.