Great American Backyard Campout

The National Wildlife Federation encourages everyone to consider the benefits of camping out under the stars—in backyards, parks, and campgrounds. You and your students’ families can register “campsites”, campout in teams, and raise money to encourage outdoor activities. Although the Great American Campout day is set for Saturday, June 26, 2010, the goal is promote the benefits of camping, not one special day. The NWF camping site includes ideas about participation, a video about camp memories, campout cooking recipes, sing-along songs, and camping activities.  Why camp? The NWF said that “outdoor kids” are more likely to be creative, get better grades in school, are more adept at socializing in school, and have stronger arms and legs, a trimmer tummies, and healthier lungs. Besides all those benefits, outdoor time has been found to improve eyesight such as nearsightedness and to make children happier. Addition information about outdoor activities is available at the NWF’s Be Out There section. So encourage your students to tell their families about the Great American Campout or perhaps and start brainstorming about what your school can do to promote healthy outdoor activities.