Although we are a very tech-filled family, I’m a huge fan of Richard Louv’s book Last Child in the Woods: Saving Our Children from Nature Deficit Disorder. We live it.
As a family living in a very urban setting (in a high rise just a stone’s throw from downtown Toronto), we find ourselves spending most of our time in greenspaces and conservation areas. We’re fortunate to be surrounded by parkland, and world class conservation areas are a car ride away.
Outdoor living re-energises us all. And sometimes, it’s the only way to cope with three children ages five and under – get ‘em outside. Free play and fresh air will sort them out.
Recently Hubby had an appointment during our family’s meal time (aka the witching hour). I was alone with three children who had no interest in healthy eating or table manners. I had a hearty splitpea soup with fresh rolls set out for the children. I will spare you the details, but suffice it to say that I still have split pea soup covering my walls and carpet. And I found a stale cheese bun behind my sofa the other day.
I gave up, wiped and dressed them as best I could and set off in the rain for a walk to our local library park. We admired lush greenery, splashed in puddles and rescued snails.
Hubby found us about half a mile from home standing in a downpour looking at flowers. The kids were happy. And so was I.
Note: I was in no way compensated for writing this post, I simply wanted to share my family’s experiences.
Here is a link to Richar Louv’s website
And a discussion from The Hospital for Sick Children about Nature Deficit Disorder.
