Get Outside!

Do you find that kids are easier to keep occupied in the summer? Now that we have reached the mid-point of the summer (really? Is it August already?), it is time to take stock of all the parks, playground, beaches and family attractions still left to explore. Check out the new website of the Early Years Institute, www.pickapark.org, for a wonderful database of Long Island's 700 parks (yes, 700!) listing their locations and facilities.

Outdoor exercise has been in the news a lot recently as the nation focuses on the obesity epidemic and the importance of getting kids up and moving. Newsday recently reported on the focus in Great Britain that all children under age 5 need daily exercise for at least 3 hours every day. Research by neuroscientists is confirming that "exercise can make kids smarter". Now who wouldn't want a physically fit, emotionally resilient, smarter child! There's even overwhelming evidence showing that the higher the fitness level of a child, the higher the test scores. So let's get everyone outside and exploring Long Island's wonderfully rich natural environment. When the weather isn't cooperative be sure to come to the JCC and use our fabulous indoor pool, play room and gym.

Karen Horowitz
Parenting Resource Network Director