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Urbana Park District encourages adults to take a child outside

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The Urbana Park District is celebrating Take a Child Outside Week from September 19 – 28, and there are lots of activities planned to get you and your family outdoors.

“Getting kids playing and enjoying the outdoors is important for their health and well-being,” said Savannah Donovan, Environmental Public Program Coordinator. “There are scientifically-proven physical and mental health benefits for all ages when we spend time outdoors.”

Staff at the Anita Purves Nature Center are organizing several free programs during the week, including:

  • Moon Walk Night Hike – September 19
  • Play Date With Nature: Fort Building – September 20
  • Outdoor Movie Night: A Bug’s Life – September 20
  • Family Forest Sensory Walk – September 21
  • Sunday Morning Bird Walk – September 22
  • Play Date with Nature: Mud Kitchen – September 23
  • Play Date with Nature: Art & Music – September 25
  • Busey Woods BioBlitz – September 27-28

Most opportunities are free and open to the public—just call the nature center to RSVP at 217-384-4062. For more information, follow the Anita Purves Nature Center and Urbana Park District online and on social media.

“The weather is supposed to be great all week, so we hope to see many people taking advantage of our programs,” Donovan said. “Or they can go to any of our parks and just enjoy a nice walk.”

No matter how, Donovan hopes that people get their kids outside.

"Getting kids outdoors to develop a love and understanding of the natural world around them is also important the future of our environment. Kids need time to bond with nature. Even that little bit of nature that is just in your driveway or sidewalk will do,” Donovan concluded.

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