Anne Cissel’s Archive

Natural Playscapes: The Future of the Playground?

 |  Apr 15, 2011

Ever heard of a natural playscape? No? Before I tell you what it is, take a moment now and imagine the typical playground you see in neighborhoods across the country. Does it look something like this? Read more

5 Ways to Lure Teens Off the Couch and Outside

 |  Mar 25, 2011

As a mom of two teenage girls, I’m more than often hearing the same old excuse,

“There’s nothing to do outside”

“I’m bored.”

It frustrates me to see them on the couch wasting their valuable time watching TV or playing video games when they could be outside enjoying the outdoors, co-existing with nature, getting some exercise, and being with friends. Read more

An Afternoon at the White House: Junior Ranger Rick Reporter Chats with Michelle Obama

 |  Mar 18, 2011

As we reported last week, 6th-grader junior Ranger Rick reporter Daniel Symons got the AMAZING opportunity to chat with Michelle Obama at the White House on Wednesday about the Let’s … Read more

Michelle Obama in the White House Garden

Junior Ranger Rick Reporter to Interview First Lady

 |  Mar 11, 2011

On March 16, 11-year-old Daniel Symons will chat with First Lady Michelle Obama about her garden and the Let’s Move! campaign — at the White House! Read more

Boy munching on trowel

It’s in the dirt! Bacteria in soil may make us happier, smarter

 |  Mar 9, 2011

Dirt can be good for you? That’s what recent scientific research is telling us. So — pass the mud pies! Read more

Calling All Kids: Want to Spend a Week in the Great Outdoors?

 |  Feb 16, 2011

  Do you know a child who loves the outdoors and nature? Here’s a chance for him or her to spend a week-long outdoor adventure at the Family Nature Summit! National … Read more

Family Camping in January? It Can Be Done — in FLORIDA!

,  |  Feb 4, 2011

With 2 kids in tow (ages 4 and 17 months), Be Out There mom Holly Ambrose headed for a New Year’s camping adventure just an hour from her home — in Everglades National Park. Read more

Mother and son running outside

5 Fantastic Outdoor Blogs by Parents (plus 6 more!)

,  |  Nov 8, 2010

Meet 5 moms and dads who blog simple, practical tips and activities to inspire families to step away from the computer — and go outside! Read more

Get To Know Contest

Get To Know Contest: Enter Your Child’s Nature-Inspired Artwork

 |  Oct 18, 2010

Enter your kids’ nature-inspired drawings, video, photos, or writing in the Get To Know Contest by November 30. Read more

Nature Calms The Mind, Brain Scans Prove

 |  Sep 17, 2010

I know how much calmer I feel when I’m surrounded by the natural world, but now there is really good science to explain why. New research published in the journal … Read more