First of Its Kind in Montgomery County, Maryland
Gaithersburg, MD – You see them across Montgomery County: Kids with their eyes trained on smart phones or tablets while they walk, talk, and even attempt their homework. Our children are getting plugged in – and seriously stressed out.
The answer: Good old Vitamin N. (That’s “Nature,” in case you didn’t know.) Children who spend time outdoors are healthier – physically and emotionally – than their peers. They are less likely to have attention deficit problems and more likely to have energy and enthusiasm. Family nature adventures can include just about outdoor activity – from collecting pine cones to potting plants – as long as you do it together. That’s what gives kids the confidence to connect with nature and the world around them.
The Izaak Walton League’s new Family Adventures in Nature (FAN) Club – the first of its kind in Montgomery County – gives families the opportunity to connect with nature, their own families, and their community. A simple hike can restore energy, provide a break from hectic family schedules, and plant seeds of joy and awe in our children and ourselves.
Parents may have heard about the importance of nature but don’t feel they know enough about birds or trees to take the lead in a family adventure outdoors. This is where the shared knowledge of a community group is such as asset. Parents (and children) are more likely to get outside on a Sunday afternoon if they know other families are waiting for them and a knowledgeable guide is leading the group.
Join our FAN Club this fall for a healthy dose of Vitamin N – and priceless time outdoors with your family. Outings are FREE and scheduled in natural areas throughout Montgomery County to help more families participate. Children of all ages are welcome, from newborns to teens. Nature is good for us all!
Come explore with us. The next FAN Club event is Sunday, October 5, when we’ll enjoy a mini-hike and autumn crafts. You can find more details and a full schedule of events online at www.iwla.org/FANclub.
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Founded in 1922, the Izaak Walton League of America (www.iwla.org) and our more than 44,000 members protect America's outdoors through education, community-based conservation, and promoting outdoor recreation.
Contact: Rebecca Wadler-Lase
IWLA Conservation Education Associate
(301) 548-0150 x243
E-mail: rwadler@iwla.org