Delaware Children in Nature Report and Recommendations

Existing Weaknesses/HealthResearch and AwarenessThe research linking experiences in nature to health is relatively new and has not reachedmany of our citizens. We are at the very beginning of this awareness campaign. More researchis needed to clarify the connection between health and nature experiences, and more effort isneeded to enlighten adults and children throughout the state.Solutions to IncreaseHealthӻӻTake a short hike, or a long hike!ӻӻGo on a bird watching walk withyour friends.ӻӻFind a playground or open spaceand play.ӻӻExercise or keep moving for 30minutes or more.ӻӻPlay a pick-up game of basketball.Existing Strengths/HealthStatewide PartnershipsCitizens of Delaware can connect withstatewide networks, programs and servicesthat educate families about the linkbetween health and nature. The DelawareCoalition for Healthy Eating and ActiveLiving (DE HEAL) addresses the issue ofobesity by suggesting that nature be usedas a context to reverse the current healthtrends of our youth.ӻӻRide a bike.ӻӻPlay a game of tag for 15 minutes or Healthy Citizensmore.Seeing the benefit of increased time spentoutdoors in nature unites Delawareansbehind the idea that building a healthier,Figure 1more informed citizenry creates an overallbetter place to live, learn and play. Theyunderstand that exposure to nature andthe opportunity for outdoor physical activity helps to improve the health of children and familiesthroughout the state.HEALTHTaskforce Recommendations on HealthGOAL 1:Seek new partnerships with proven programs to create healthy schools and transformcommunities.Recommendation 1: Partner with the Department of Health and Social Services and theDelaware Council on Health Promotion and Disease Prevention to raise awareness of thechallenges and solutions to addressing childhood obesity.Recommendation 2: Inventory programs in Delaware schools such as wellness plans, farm-toschoolprograms, Healthy Food, Healthy Kids, etc.Delaware Children in Nature Initiative 41