It has been well documented over the past few years that children have become increasingly detached from outdoor activities and are less physically active. In his book, Last Child in the Woods, Richard Louv coined the term, “nature deficit disorder,” to describe this growing disconnect between children and the outdoors. Some of the problems arising from this phenomenon include increased rates of childhood obesity and diabetes; poor development of social skills; higher occurrences of attention deficit disorder; poor classroom performance; and vitamin-D deficiency.
In January 2010, a group of agencies and organizations came together to propose a Children’s Outdoor Bill of Rights as a tool to communicate the benefits of being outside and physically active. This Children’s Outdoor Bill of Rights Alliance believes, as many studies have also documented, that children are healthier, happier, have better social skills, and do better in school when they are given the opportunities to play outside.
Mission
To encourage Nevada’s children to participate in outdoor recreational activities, engage in lifelong learning adventures, and become stewards of the environment.
Goals
- Increase participation of all children in outdoor activities.
- Promote the health benefits of being active outdoors.
- Increase understanding of Nevada’s heritage and support for outdoor recreation opportunities.
- Promote stewardship of public lands, community environments, and our diverse ecosystems.
- Enhance outdoor safety awareness.
Organizational Roles
- The Southern Nevada Agency Partnership (SNAP) is the lead agency for this initiative and has dedicated some initial funding for its implementation.
- UNLV Public Lands Institute (PLI) is coordinating the effort on behalf of SNAP. PLI serves as the point of contact for Alliance members, steering committee and inquiries from the public.
- Through a grant submitted by PLI, the National Park Service’s Rivers, Trails, and Conservation Assistance Program is providing technical assistance and initial meeting facilitation services.
Additional groups, agencies and organizations are encouraged to join us. Please contact Project Manager Allison Brody at 702-895-5097.
