Texas Children in Nature Summit and Champions Awards Luncheon

Autism is one of the fastest growing developmental disorders, referred to by some as an “epidemic”. The Center for Disease Control (CDC) estimates 1 in 68 kids falls within the Autism spectrum. Taking Autism Outdoors (TAO) is an afterschool "camp" that took place in local parks over 10 sessions in Spring 2018. It was designed to provide data on the mental, social, and physical benefits of nature on kids with autism. It also sought to provide an easily replicable template for others interested in offering similar programs, to create a stewardship ethic and love for the outdoors in the lives of participants and their families, and to introduce families to free, safe parks close to home in hopes they will continue to regularly spend time in nature. This session will provide a basic 10-session program template/resources, tips on collaborating with local school districts, a synopsis of successes and lessons learned (there were alot), and reassurance and guidance to those interested in working with special needs populations. Plans for TAO camp for Fall 2018, the value of meetup groups, and greatest achievement of the program - friendships - will also be discussed.

The concept of connecting time in nature with better physical and mental health is one of the hallmarks of this movement. But how well are we engaging the healthcare community and how well are we communicating the health benefits to different audiences? Most of us aren't in the health care field, but don't be intimated--healthcare professionals are likely more receptive than you may think and there are straightforward health messages that we can use to raise awareness, find new allies, and advance the movement. More research than ever before now documents the health benefits for children and families who spend time outside and in nature. After an overview of successes and approaches from around the country, participants will roll up their sleeves and help strategize ready-to-implement state and local actions to elevate nature as a health care strategy.

Nature education and outdoor recreation programs are often on a shoestring budget, with little long-term certainty.  Despite their importance, where is the real, tangible financial support for these programs? New legislation has emerged that could provide transformative changes in how these programs are funded.  It would also mean transformative change for the landscape, and fish and wildlife populations. This bipartisan bill, Recovering America’s Wildlife Act, aims to address our nation’s declining wildlife crisis by providing dedicated funding for conservation, education, and recreation.  The Texas conservation community could receive more than $63 million annually to recover declining wildlife and their habitats, improve nature education, and promote/enhance nonconsumptive outdoor recreation. Passage of this bill would be a game changer in helping us realize our shared vision of healthy Texas communities and families who benefit from the full host of services nature and biodiversity provides us.  A combined 30% of this annual funding could be used for conservation education and outdoor recreation programs which increase connections with, and access to, wildlife and their habitats. From pocket prairies, wild urban spaces, and neighborhood nature, to new outdoor learning environments, recreation and citizen science opportunities -- please join us to learn more about this landmark opportunity, the types of programs that could be implemented and expanded through the Texas Children in Nature Network, and how your organization can support the national movement.

This workshop focuses on the importance of natural playgrounds (Why, What, How) as well as the selection and placement of plant material that will support purposeful play and design while maximizing educational principles needed for any playground. Choosing plant material tends to be overlooked or discounted during the design process but it’s an important feature for any outdoor space. Participants will learn the what, where and why of planting shrubs, trees and soft plantings in the playground.  The right vegetation provides shade, opportunities for play, engages our senses, assists with the flow of traffic and provides an inviting space to gather and connect.  Join us for a hands-on workshop that will reinforce the importance of good, sound, design principles.  Thoughtful placement of plant material will support the maintenance and success needed for all playgrounds.