At the start of the summer holidays, here's a call to action. Photo: Palmy Dirty 30
A group of parents in Palmerston North have launched the Palmy Dirty 30 challenge to encourage children and their families to spend more time in the outdoors.
They've come up with 30 fun and free things to do, either around Palmerston North or anywhere else, including simple activities like rolling down hills and swinging in old tyres.
The focus is on fun, but there is a serious message behind the initiative, says Heather Went, who is one of the parents involved.
"Kids playing outside with other kids has been the Kiwi-way for generations. But along the way something has changed, kids started spending increasing amounts of time inside."
She says childhood has changed significantly since many of today’s parents grew up in the 1970’s and 80’s.
"Unstructured, outdoor play is important for both children’s development and the future of the environment. By getting our children outdoors, they have fun, take risks and exercise without even noticing it. Additionally, the hope is that they develop a sense of adventure and a love of nature and exploring."
Photo: Palmy Dirty 30 Challenge
