Illinois Says Leave No Child Inside

Illinois Gov. Pat Quinn proclaimed the month of June “Leave No Child Inside Month.” The Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) is sponsoring efforts to get young people away from their TVs and computers.

With the growth of the Internet and the entertainment industry targeting children with video games and online social sites it’s hard to get children outside to enjoy what previous generations took for granted: nature.

Illinois Gov. Pat Quinn proclaimed the month of June “Leave No Child Inside Month.” The Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) is sponsoring efforts to get young people away from their TVs and computers and outside to enjoy the state’s natural resources and IDNR events.

“Here in the Land of Lincoln, we have some of the most beautiful natural sites in the country, from our state parks to our lakes and rivers. It is important for children to turn off the television, put down their video games, and get outdoors to learn about nature in a truly interactive classroom. We must teach our youth to be stewards of the environment to ensure its splendor for generations to come,” said IDNR Director Marc Miller in an IDNR press release.

Chicago Wilderness and IDNR will host many free family events. Designed to help children and parents have fun in the natural world, programs include archery, climbing, fishing, bird-watching, fort building, and learning how to set up a campsite.

“Leave No Child Inside Month events are designed to bring families together around enriching experiences in nature and inspire the curiosity that leads to a lifelong connection to the natural world,” said Melinda Pruett-Jones, executive director, Chicago Wilderness in an IDNR press release.

When designing the program, which launched in 2007, the state used studies about children and outdoor activities, according to an official statement. These studies showed that children who spent more time outdoors with nature suffered less anxiety and depression. Concentration and school performance increased, while a love for nature manifested. Adults who bond with nature as children are more likely to advocate for the environment as adults, according to the IDNR.

Being outside and not confined to a couch, chair, or desk naturally leads to increased physical activity.

The “Leave No Child Inside” program is not the only government sponsored health and wellness program. The White House supports an anti-obesity health and exercise program called “Let’s Move.” Initiated by first lady Michelle Obama, the program targets childhood obesity through a program including advice, checklists, and Web tools.