COALITION FOR CHILDREN IN NATURE WORKING GROUPS TO MEET

Former Gov. Kathleen Sebelius issued an executive order to form the Kansas Coalition for Children in Nature last April. The purpose of the coalition is to create opportunities for children to experience nature, working with state agencies and other organizations. Research has shown that time in nature improves a child’s academic performance, concentration, balance, coordination and self-esteem. Unfortunately, the amount of time children spend outside has dropped by 50 percent during the past 20 years.

As a result of that executive order, the three working groups of the Coalition for Children and Nature will this month:

Environmental Education -- November 18, 2009, 9 a.m. at Westar Energy, 210 E. 2nd Street, Emporia . Conference call capability available. Contact: Laura Downey, ldowney@kacee.org

Health -- 20 November 20 2009, 10 a.m. at Kansas Wildlife and Parks Region 2 Office, 300 SW Wanamaker, Topeka. Conference call capability available. Contact: Shari Wilson, swilson@kacee.org

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