Nature-Deficit Disorder

Nature-deficit disorder is the idea that human beings, especially children, are spending less time outdoors than they have in the past, and the belief that this change results in a wide range of behavioral problems. In this episode, I interview August Vandiver. August is the Outdoor Recreation Programmer for the City of Pearland. I love how August describes himself:  "I have a passion for nature that I share by engaging others through interactive and hands-on interpretation. By using informal education, I create a learning experience that connects students, families, and communities with their local environments in an outdoor setting. It is my ambition, through this type of learning, to help others form a relationship with nature that will garner a deeper curiosity and a greater understanding of stewardship and conservation for our natural environment." Previous and current experiences include positions at Armand Bayou Nature Center, the Houston Zoo, Inc., Sea Camp at Texas A&M Galveston, and The Woods Project. In this episode, we talk about the nature-deficit disorder and practical ways you can encourage your child to explore and participate in nature.  https://www.parks.pearlandtx.gov/Home/Components/StaffDirectory/StaffDirectory/141/1964