GFP works to connect kids, nature

Published/Last Modified on Monday, Feb 08, 2010 - 12:21:36 am CST

Capital Journal staff

PIERRE — There will be a lot more kids playing outside this year thanks to a new partnership involving the South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks Department and child-care providers,

The department recently awarded nature backpacks, filled with items to encourage outdoor exploration, to 180 child-care providers across the state.

“The nature backpack program is a perfect opportunity to partner with child-care providers in getting kids outside more,” said GFP Secretary Jeff Vonk.

The program is part of the Game, Fish and Parks’ participation in the nationwide Children in Nature initiative to make nature a part of children’s everyday lives.

“Connecting children with nature at an early age is very important, both for the children as individuals and for our society as a whole,” Vonk said. “Studies show children who play outside are healthier, have higher self-esteem, are good problem-solvers, have good self-discipline and do better in school.”

The department hopes to continue the grant program with future installments for pre-school, after-school, libraries and other groups.

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