Getting Children Involved in the Wonders of Nature PDF E-mail

Featured at Mountain Wildlife Days, July 16-18

Wild South is a proud partner in presenting Mountain Wildlife Days. This program will help build the next generation of conservationists.

The 6th Annual Mountain Wildlife Days, themed Getting Children Involved in the Wonders of Nature, will address the growing disconnect of children from the natural world.

This symposium will bring together a cross-section of people who are alarmed about the potential implications of "nature deficit disorder" (a term coined by Richard Louv in his 2005 book Last Child in the Woods). We will focus on ways parents, educators, government agencies and community organizations can work together so our youth experience the joy of the outdoors.

• Dr. Jayne White, a professor in the School of Education and Child Development at Drury University in Springfield, Missouri, will examine the impact of outdoor experiences on children's overall physical, mental and spiritual development.

• Janis Brannon, a science teacher and outdoor programmer for Summit School, will present highlights of the SummitSchool's successful outdoor education programs.

• Clayton Lopez, parent, will illustrate the benefits of an "outdoor moment."

• "Muddy Sneakers" will present activities they make available to schools and other organizations.

• John Bryant, a young ministerial student from the Duke Divinity School, will present how his parents were so influential in helping him formulate a deep appreciation for God and nature.

• Adam DeWitte, assistant director of education at the Cradle of Forestry Interpretive Association, will explain the "Nature-Oriented Parenting" resources available for children, parents, grandparents and schools.


Interactive dialogue will be encouraged. Organizations are invited to display information about nature-centered, hands-on activities for children and families.

Mountain Wildlife Days will provide opportunities for active participation through field trips, hikes, nature walks, live animals, wildlife and nature programs. On the morning of July 17, the Jackson-Macon Conservation Alliance will lead a hike to Panthertown and Wild South will host a field trip to the newly designed GorgesState Park. In the afternoon, Appalachian Bear Rescue will provide a hands-on learning opportunity for young children. Friday evening, Curtis Blackwell and the Dixie Bluegrass Boys will play traditional mountain music. Immediately following, Doris Mager, "The Eagle Lady," will host an Owl Prowl.

On Saturday, July 18, wildlife will be the center of attraction with live wolves, a live raptor program and a nationally acclaimed "Seasons of the Black Bear" presentation. Bill Lea, world class photographer, will present a program about the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. A bird watch and walk with the HighlandsNatureCenter is scheduled Saturday afternoon.

The field trips and black bear program for young children are limited to 20 participants. To sign up, call the Community Center at the SapphireValley Resort at 828-743-7663 or 828-743-9648.

This event will be held at the SapphireValley Resort Community Center located three miles east of Cashiers, just off Highway 64.

Please contact John Edwards, Mountain Wildlife Days coordinator, with questions or requests. 828-743-9648 or 864-934-1935
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