PROGRAMS FOR KIDS IN LIMON AND LAMAR

6/25/2009

WILD OUTDOORS: PROGRAMS FOR KIDS IN LIMON AND LAMAR


LAMAR, Colo. - Most adults can recall their parents telling them to "Go outside and play," and cherish the memories of climbing trees, catching frogs, and all the things kids do during the summertime outdoors.

By contrast, youngsters today grow up with TV, video games, and lifestyles that tend to keep them indoors.

In an effort to teach children more about the natural world outdoors, the Colorado Division of Wildlife (DOW) will hold free kid's programs in Lamar July 14-16 from 9 a.m. - noon and in Limon on July 21-23 from 9 a.m. - noon.

The programs are geared toward youngsters ages 8-12.

Experts say that spending time playing outdoors is important for a child's physical, mental, emotional, and social well-being. Early connections to nature lead to life-long awareness of the natural world, which in turn reduces stress and enhances creativity and academic growth.

In an effort to reverse the trend to stay indoors, a national effort called "Leave No Child Inside" is prompting parents to get their kids outside to explore, learn about, and enjoy the environment.

Children who attend one of the DOW's free "Wild Outdoors" programs will learn about Colorado's wildlife and the natural world outside. After attending, they will know more about the natural world just outside their own back door.

Kids will learn about wildlife by studying animal tracks and signs looking for their sources of food, water, and shelter learning about animals the live in water and with any luck catching a glimpse animals living in their own habitat.

The classes are limited to 20 children, so register early. To register, or get more information, call DOW Education Specialist Linda Groat at (719) 336-6608.

For more information about Division of Wildlife go to: http://wildlife.state.co.us.