Indiana DNR Program Promotes a Child’s Right to Play Outside
OutdoorHub 05.15.12
Like free speech and due process, a child’s right to play outside is a pillar of American society that makes our country stronger, according to the Indiana DNR.
Children who play outside are healthier and do better in school, and they grow up to have better social skills, a stronger self image, and lead more fulfilled lives. Furthermore, the future of conservation and stewardship of our natural and cultural resources depends on engaging America’s children today.
For those reasons, the DNR has put this previously unwritten liberty into writing. Working with the National Association of State Park Directors and other states, the DNR has drafted an Indiana Children’s Outdoor Bill of Rights to encourage kids to participate in outdoor activities and explore their cultural heritage.
The Bill of Rights is a list of 11 activities to help get kids outside. They are:
- Explore and play outdoors in a safe place.
- Follow a trail and discover native plants, wildlife and history.
- Experience traditional outdoor activities like fishing or hunting.
- Discover and celebrate Indiana’s past.
- Camp under the stars.
- Climb a tree.
- Visit a farm.
- Plant a seed or tree and watch it grow.
- Splash and play in streams, lakes and ponds.
- Enjoy the outdoors using all the senses.
- Ask questions, find answers and share nature with a friend.
A checklist is at childrenplayoutdoors.dnr.IN.gov. Upon completion of all 11 activities, children also can download a Hoosier Outdoor Child certificate from the website. The website also features a free poster to download and links to online resources that will help children complete the activities, including DNR’s “Discovering a Sense of Place” booklet.
“Not all children live in a place today where they can play in wide open spaces, but every child should have the chance to play outdoors, either in a backyard or in a green space close to home,” said Dan Bortner, director of Indiana State Parks & Reservoirs. “Our Children’s Outdoor Bill of Rights reminds us that, as adults, we need to help our children and other Hoosier children get outside.”
Thirty-five sponsors from around the state, including local governments, conservation organizations and businesses, have partnered with DNR to help make the Bill of Rights happen. A list of those sponsors is available at the website.
