The health and welfare of Oregon’s children is in decline and this decline is strongly linked to the limited opportunities that modern children have for free play. Today, more than one quarter of Oregon eighth-graders is overweight or obese and one in 10 children suffer from mental illness. On September 11, 12, 13, 14 & 15, a consortium of organizations and advocates is hosting a series of events directed at increasing public awareness of the important role that free and outdoor play has in the physical, emotional, social, and cognitive health of our children. We invite you to participate in these “wild” events and hope you will join us!
Friday, September 12 from 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.Portland Children’s Play Swarm – Kaiser Permanente Town Hall
Nature’s Marketing Director, David Bond, will lead a gathering of Nature’s Marketing Department. Participants will work in small groups to collaboratively discuss and create ideas to connect children to nature and improve their health through improved opportunities for free play. Hosted by Playworks. Thanks to Kaiser Permanente for use of its Town Hall.
Monday, September 15 from 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Regional Nature Play and Education Symposium – Oregon Zoo
Hosted by Metro, this educational event is divided into separate morning and afternoon sessions. You may attend both sessions or choose between them. There will be a reception from 5 to 6:30 p.m. following by a screening of Project Wild Thing. Food and beverages will be served.