The family is the most important institution of our society. Countless resources are expended to promote and strengthen this institution in modern life. Few other resources have the ability to promote and encourage strong families in as many ways as do local parks. Parks are places where families can connect and interact and share important experiences. These are places that promote a sense of community, and enhance cultural values. A park can be a place where neighbors can meet and engage in activities that can make those neighborhoods safer.
Consider some of the ways local parks benefit families:
- Local parks provide children with the opportunity to experience nature, and learn more about their world.
- Local parks provide exposure to outdoor activities and environmental learning for families that may not traditionally have such opportunities.
- Local parks increase physical activity to promote healthier lifestyles
- Parks are places where parents can teach their children self-respect and promote mutual respect of others.
- Access to parks offers support for social opportunities and spontaneous play, where parents and children can connect with other peer groups. Local Parks help families build stronger bonds with the community and nature.
- Local Parks help families learn life-long outdoor skills and increase self esteem.
- Local parks provide alternatives for educational opportunities outside of school classrooms.
- Local parks are places where families can spend quality time together and create lasting memories.
- Formal and informal outdoor recreation activities create a sense of being connected to the larger community.
- Parks have the ability to bring people together, be it families, neighbors, festival goers, sports fans or nature enthusiasts. Community building can occur through joint efforts for beautification, such as volunteer clean ups, and can reinforce a sense of pride and belonging.
- Parks and recreation are especially important for reducing criminal activity in our youth. “Safe parks and recreation centers” topped the list when researchers asked adolescents what they wanted most during their non-school hours.
