Summer 2008 Children’s Outdoor Bill of Rights Proclamation
by Director Jerry Hover, KS State Parks Director
With concerns about youth detachment from outdoor activities, lack of physical exercise, and increased
health risks the KS Division of State parks has adopted the KS Children’s Outdoor Bill of Rights—a basic list of experiences that every child in KS would benefit from experiencing—no matter what age. Numerous studies document that children who are more
active and learn to enjoy the outdoors are healthier, do better in school, have better social skills and self-image, and lead more fulfilled lives.
Spending time in the great outdoors can be a wonderful experience for people of all ages, and this is
especially true for our youth. Participating in outdoor activities is not only an enjoyable way for kids to get the exercise they need, it also helps them develop a greater appreciation for our magnificent environment and KS state parks.
To promote increased involvement in outdoor activities, your KS State Parks Director and a volunteer
group comprising public and private organizations from the federal, state and local levels – has created the Children’s Outdoor Bill of Rights that provides that every child between the ages of four and fourteen should have the opportunity to:
“Bee A Kansas
Explorer”
1 Discover Kansas past
2 Splash in the water
3 Play in a safe place
4 Camp under the stars
5 Explore nature
6 Learn to swim
7 Play on a team
8 Follow a trail
9 Catch a fish
10 Celebrate their heritage
“I encourage parents, educators and other concerned citizens to do all they can to help our state’s
children experience and enjoy the wonders of Mother Nature – and there is no better place to experience them than right here in our beautiful Sunflower State,” said Jerry Hover in his January 1, 2008 proclamation recognizing the “Children’s Outdoor Bill of
Rights—Bee a Kansas Explorer” and encouraging children’s participation in outdoor activities during the summer months.
More information on state parks is also available at the department’s website,
www.kdwp.state.ks.us.