“Children today spend less time in nature than any other generation, devoting only four to seven minutes a day to unstructured outdoor play”
–National Recreation and Park Association
Children’s limited contact with nature has contributed to a variety of health problems, including obesity, depression, asthma, attention deficit disorder, and more. The good news is many of these health problems are reversible. Studies by the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences repeatedly show that when children actively engage in nature-based free play, their emotional well-being and physical health improve.
Bernheim works on site and beyond our borders to help support the health of children and establish lifelong connections with nature. Bernheim’s nationally renowned program, Children at Play Network (CAPN) focuses on providing free play in nature for all children. CAPN works to increase equitable access to nature and its health benefits for children throughout the region and especially those living in cities with less access to safe play in nature.
This year CAPN provided 1,200 children free play days throughout the region. But with your help, even more children can connect with nature and receive the health benefits Bernheim provides. Your support of Bernheim’s Healthy Forest, Healthy Lives Campaign, no matter the size, will have a great impact on the health of our communities’ children, and on our future as we help build the next generation of environmental stewards.
Bernheim is 100% member and donor supported. We rely on the generosity of supporters like YOU to achieve Bernheim’s important mission of connecting people with nature! Donate by January 31, 2020. Your gift will help make a difference in the health and well-being of children across the region.
