As a state with one of the highest obesity rates in the nation, encouraging more outdoor physical activity is important for public health. Decreased time outdoors has shown a decline in children’s fitness, creativity, and social skills. Most children age 8-18 spend over 45 hours per week connected to electronics, but they need meaningful experiences in nature to understand ecosystems and enhance problem-solving skills.  Learn more about the need for nature in a child’s development.  

Discover ways to connect to nature in your community.

• Take a digital tour of the Trinity River Audubon Center and Dogwood Canyon Audubon Center at Cedar Hill.
• Did you know even urban areas have amazing natural areas nearby? Find nature centers and parks near you.
• Do you have kids? Letting them play outside regularly improves their health and happiness. Take the Be Out There pledge to incorporate more play time in nature.
• Become a citizen scientist! From birds to water quality to invasive species, your discoveries can support research of our ecosystems.
• Receive a free Texas State Parks guide and sticker by pledging to Take Care of Texas.