Nature-deficit disorder is a term used to describe the negative effects of spending too little time in natural outdoor environments. Many people believe that alienation from nature contributes to attention difficulties, mood disorders, obesity, and a loss of respect for wildlife. On the other hand, being in nature is great for the health of parents and children alike. This is a fantastic reason to limit screen time and make some memories with your kids in the great outdoors.
While nature-deficit disorder is not a medical diagnosis, it describes a serious problem that has the potential to affect the well-being of our children. To protect your kids and bring nature back into your family’s life, plan weekend trips in the wild, take your kids to natural spaces in your community, and encourage outdoor play at home whenever possible. Nothing compares to growing up in the great outdoors!
Below are some fun ideas to get you started!
Whether your kids are playing or helping out, there are many ways to get them out in the yard.
- How to Limit Your Child’s Screen Time and Get Them Outside while Social Distancing
- The Best Outdoor Chores for Kids
- Increase Kid Activity Levels with a Backyard Playground
- Outdoor Winter Activities for Kids
- Richard Louv’s 10 Nature Activities during COVID
Family Weekend Trips
Set up a nature adventure for the whole family!
- The 9-Step Guide to Camping with Kids
- 8 Ways to Make Hiking Fun for Little Kids
- 5 Reasons You Should Teach a Kid to Fish
Outdoor Activities in Your Community
Next, look for activities in your community whether your kids are playing a team sport or enjoying a park.
- 5 Fun Games to Play at the Park
- How to Find Nature in the City and Suburbs
- How to Get Your Child Involved in Sports
- Biking, Other Outdoor Activities That Boost Overall Health
Educating Your Children
Getting out in nature offers many opportunities to teach your children.
- How to Get Your Child Excited About Nature
- Turn Any Walk Into a Nature Walk
- How to Safely Observe Wildlife from Your Home
- 6 Tips to Teach Your Kids to Respect the Environment
- 7 Mind-Blowing Backyard Science Experiments for Kids
- Indoor and Outdoor Family Activities during COVID
To learn more about nature-deficit disorder, please visit StopNDD.org, a coalition of retired teachers whose mission is to end nature-deficit disorder.