Filed under: Importance of Parks | Tags: Audubon Society of Portland, Childhood Obesity, Eugene, Lane Coalition for Healthy Active Youth, Let's Move, Portland
Childhood obesity is on the rise, and so are the diseases that can stem from it. Asthma, sleep apnea, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, diabetes, gallstones, liver disease, kidney disease, and coronary vascular disease, which leads to heart attacks and strokes, are just some of the many problems that can result from obesity.
First Lady Michelle Obama’s Let’s Move campaign has taken a stab at the growing problem, but the federal government can only do so much. Responsibility for offsetting the epidemic also lies with communities, city planners, schools, and parents.
Though studies have found that location plays a role in how often kids walk or play outside, there are multiple organizations that can help children explore the environment, engage in physical activity, and reduce risk of weight gain and obesity.
The Lane Coalition for Healthy Active Youth (LCHAY) is one such organization. Founded in 2004, the nonprofit seeks to prevent childhood obesity in Lane County. The LCHAY focuses its projects and advocacy campaigns on increasing kids’ physical activity and access to healthy foods, and reducing the amount of “screen time” spent with TVs, video games, and computers. Events sponsored by LCHAY include last October’s 3.1 mile RiverBend Run/Walk along the McKenzie River in Springfield, and this winter’s current film series (for more information check out the LCHAY website or their Facebook page).
Another organization that values the benefits of teaching children about nature is the Audubon Society of Portland. Dating back to 1903, the society dedicates itself to the conservation of Oregon’s wild places. Part of its work includes teaching children in the Portland area about the importance of nature and how to live alongside it responsibly. The Audubon Society offers school programs and spring, summer, and winter camps for kids.
Playing outside in parks and open spaces not only decreases risk of childhood obesity, but also improves kids’ emotional and cognitive development. Engaging with nature allows children to develop their sense of place, observational skills, and reasoning. Overall, running on the grass helps children grow in a healthy environment and leads them toward a brighter future.
2. Study: Traffic patterns affect childhood obesity
3. Green neighborhoods lower childhood obesity
4. LCHAY: Lane Coalition for Healthy Active Youth
5. Audubon Society of Portland
Blog By: Rebecca Sedlak
