Missoula Children and Nature Network

Great upcoming opportunity for you and your family! Free Cross Country Ski trip. See the events page for more information! Updated New's feed available on News page. "The Great Outdoors Can Help Heal a Generation"-- (Posted 1-5-2010) FACTS: A child is six times more likely to play a video game on a typical day than to ride a bike. In 1995, 68% of children ages 7 to 11 rode a bike at least six times a year. Last year, only 47% did. The average child in America will spend more than 45 hours per week in front of a TV, computer, or video game and less that 30 minutes per week in unstructured, outdoor play.		Missoula Children and Nature Network Mission Statement To advocate and facilitate the development of meaningful, life-long connections between children and the natural environment, aimed at improving the health of the youth and the natural world in the greater Missoula area. Our Vision is for every child in the greater Missoula area to experience nature directly, develop healthy living habits, and connections to the natural places in their communities. Missoula Children and Nature Network Goals 1. Provide children with direct experiences in local outdoor events. 2. Increase the amount of time children and their families spend outdoors in nature. 3. Develop appreciation for nature among children. 4. Provide playing and learning experiences in nature, our open spaces and play spaces. 5. Connect mentors, leaders, and researchers with children in outdoor settings. 6. Increase the amount of outdoor-based built and natural areas that support and enhance the networks efforts towards reconnecting our children and nature.