Press Release - Outdoor Bill of Rights Suggestions
OFFICE OF LT. GOV. BARBARA O'BRIEN
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Sunday, April 19, 2009
CONTACT:
Ellen Dumm, 303 866-6361 (office), 303 829-0194 (cell), ellen.dumm@state.co.us
Lt. Gov. O'Brien Wants Suggestions for Colorado Children's Outdoor Bill of Rights
Lt. Gov. O'Brien is asking for recommendations to create a Colorado Children's Outdoor Bill of Rights, in an effort to help reconnect children with the outdoors.
Recent studies indicate that children's time spent playing outdoors has been cut in half over the last 20 years, while childhood obesity rates have more than doubled.* The National Wildlife Federation cites studies that show children who spend more time outdoors experience improvement in learning, behavior, and overall health.**
"Colorado has a rich culture of outdoor activity and no one knows better what experiences they should treasure most than kids themselves," said Lt. Gov. Barbara O'Brien. "This week we'll be celebrating Earth Day. We see this as a great opportunity for students to have discussions in classrooms or for parents to talk with their children about what they enjoy about the outdoors, and then participate in the creation of the Outdoor Bill of Rights."
The Colorado Children's Outdoor Bill of Rights will consist of fun, safe, and uniquely Colorado activities kids should have the opportunity to enjoy before they reach the age of 18. (Examples: Follow a trail, or enjoy a sunset over the Rocky Mountains, etc.) Classes or individuals may contribute up to 10 suggestions.
To participate; kids, parents, and teachers should email suggestions to kidsbor@state.co.us before May 31. Emails should include your name and contact information. Winners will be posted on Lt. Gov. O'Brien's website in June.
* http://www.cdc.gov/nccdphp/publications/factsheets/Prevention/obesity.htm
** http://www.nwf.org/nationalwildlifeweek/connectkidswithnature.cfm