G2G (GOT TO GO) OUTSIDE: OUTDOOR PLAYTIME IS IMPORTANT FOR CHILDREN, FAMILIES AND THE FUTURE OF SCIENCE AND AGRICULTURE
4-H & Youth
Tonya Bronleewe
Natural Resources Agent
K-State Research & Extension
Wichita
Abstract
Over the past 20 years the amount of time children and young adults spend outdoors has dramatically decreased. This disconnect from the natural world has far reaching effects that include an attitude of irrelevance towards nature and agriculture, decreased interest in science, sedentary lifestyles and increased obesity. Research shows unstructured outdoor play has positive impacts on children's physical, emotional, social, and cognitive health. Creative play promotes independent thinking, critical reasoning skills, career exploration and good health from regular exercise. The g2g (got to go) Outside program promotes increased physical activity, family time, and connection to nature. g2g Outside is a collaborative partnership between the Agriculture, Horticulture, Family and Consumer Science and 4-H Youth Development of Sedgwick County Extension K-State, the City of Wichita WATER Center, and the Kansas Department of Wildlife & Parks. g2g Outside provides opportunities for children to participate in fundamental outdoor activities at Play in the Park and Exploration events. At the same time, technology savvy participants learn techniques, games, and educational information through the g2g Outside blog (www.g2goutside.wordpress.com), Twitter, and Facebook groups. The program seeks to provide outdoor experiences to parents and children during their formative years, increasing the potential for long-term behavior change and appreciation for the environment. g2g Outside provides families with opportunities to develop and practice their skills together, and rejuvenate the excitement that kids feel when they “got to go” outside for discovery and fun!
Authors: Bronleewe, T. , McMahon, R.
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Bronleewe, T. Extension Agent, Natural Resources, Kansas State Research & Extension, Kansas, 67205
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McMahon, R. Extension Agent, Horticulture, Kansas State Research & Extension, Kansas, 67205