Surveys show that children spend more than 30 hours per week connected to electronic devices, but less than an hour a month in nature, according to the Hopewell Valley Municipal Alliance.
The Alliance and a dozen or so other area organizations have organized a three-day event intended to get youngsters and adults outdoors and active. The Alliance works to discourage substance abuse in young people.
In its second year, Hopewell Valley Come Outside and Play! will take place April 28-30.
Outdoor activities have been planned throughout the Valley including nature walks, star gazing, pond study, family hike, a community picnic with a scavenger hunt, wildlife show and fishing derby and more.
All activities are free of charge.
”The benefits and importance of play have been gracing headlines in major newspapers and parenting blogs across America,” said Ms. Kahme, Alliance chairwoman.
”Today’s children tend to be driven indoors to computers and television for recreation. Kids today are play-deprived,” she said.
Hopewell Valley boasts a range of creeks, lakes, bike paths, walking trails, playgrounds, and ancient trees.
Organizers of Hopewell Valley Come Outside and Play! hope people of all ages will learn about these special places in their own backyard during this special program.
For a complete list of activities, contact the Hopewell Valley Municipal Alliance at 737-0120, ext. 642; Hopewell Township Recreation Department at 737-3753; or in the Hopewell Valley Regional School District virtual backpack.
According to the Alliance, a national survey found that nearly half Americans polled say their most cherished time on the weekend is spent outdoors. Parents, however, are keeping children indoors in order to keep them safe from danger, and — with the advent of the computer, video games and television — children have more reasons to stay inside.
A new study, the Alliance noted says children are online for 7.5 hours a day, and that childhood and adult obesity are on the rise.
In addition, outdoor exercise is on the decline. National Park visits have decreased over 20 percent since 1988.
