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Even though I was bookworm, as a child I spent time outside. I walked to and from school. I explored my town by bicycle. I also played in the backyard, catching fireflies at night, digging for rocks, or playing on our swing set.

Zoom ahead almost 40 years later and my children are driven to a school over three miles away. Our backyard is boring compared to a fast food restaurant play land or the play area at the local indoor mall. TV and computers beckon, too.

We try to find ways to get them outdoors. In the summer, they help mow and gather berries and vegetables in the garden. We go camping and fishing in the Colorado mountains. My husband also takes our children hiking in our national park.

The National Wildlife Federation (those nice people who bring children those Ranger Rick, Your Big Backyard, and Wild Animal Baby magazines) recommends that parents give their kids a “green hour” everyday – time for unstructured play and interaction with the natural world in a garden,  backyard, or park. To support this they’ve developed the Green Hour website rich in family-friendly content that hosts a supportive virtual community where families can learn, explore, and share their outdoor experiences and backyard adventures.

What’s going on at the Green Hour?

The first thing you should do at the Green Hour site so you can participate in their Member Spaces and Community Corner. Afterwards, subscribe to the Green Hour® e-Newsletter. The last issue I received featured 7 Ways to Spread the Green Hour Message from the Green Hour Blog.

The site also features a Parents’ Guide to help you find the best ways to make Green Hour work for you. It includes tips like discover nature together and be prepared by packing an explorer’s kit.

The Green Hour also features a link to NatureFind – just plug in your zip code or city and state to locate the green spaces in your neighborhood. I did and it gave me nearby state parks, museums and nature centers. Very cool! Finally, there are seasonal activity suggestions like Ice Sculptures or a Lazy, Hazy Reading Day.

Isn’t it time for you and your family to take a Green Hour?

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