Nature-Based Recreation

Children in Nature-Based Recreation

Recreation is an activity of leisure, done to achieve some form of enjoyment or relaxation. Nature-based recreation refers to a type of leisure (activity for the purpose of relaxation or enjoyment) that directly involves interaction with natural outdoor elements. While nature-based recreation can have many obvious benefits, it is important to consider all possible constraints and negatives when understanding its effects on the population. Every demographic has various needs and requirements in regards to its recreation; this essay will focus on children from the ages of five to twelve within urban communities, and examine the benefits and constraints of nature-based recreation in Canada. It will also outline

Moreover, in order to fully comprehend the constraints on children, the subsequent constraints of their parents must also be considered as second-hand restrictions. Most children do not have complete autonomy in how they spend their time. The fear of crime prominently influences parents in where they allow their child to spend leisure time. Many perceive a risk to attending general public attraction. For instance, safety in public parks was seen as an issue with a lot of parents. One study even notes that 17% of Albertan parents worry a great deal when their children are playing outside. 63% of parents worry and only 19% do not worry at all. Adult supervision is an important obstacle in more nature-based recreation. While it does account for the safety of the child, it also limits their experience of nature to the adult's own definition. Recreation in the supervision of an adult is typically structured versus free play, and free play allows children to better understand problems of sharing versus negotiating, and teamwork versus independence. Children in urban environments have more constraints due to space limitations. The cost of activities is higher and the children are also subject to the typically larger time

2012). Another long-lasting constraint can arise from poor planning of urban spaces. Nature-based recreational spaces must be prioritized in order to reinvigorate the city, and provide children with constant positive stimuli. Once built, these spaces should also be maintained at a high standard of safety and controlled to some capacity (eg: aesthetic). Poor planning can affect generations of children, until the management or city allots for a renovation of the space. There needs to be an initiative from a governmental perspective in the planning of these spaces. Spaces that are catered to children must also consider their parents' ability to participate in the space. Emergency phones on trails, better lighting, maps and park staff can add to the safety of a park.

Conclusion

Nature-based recreation has numerous obvious benefits and less obvious constraints. It can be immensely beneficial when planned in a realistic and demographic specific manner, and can allow children to experience more positivity on a daily basis. Outdoor recreational programs are not mandatory in schools ana thus, the child's ability to interact and play in nature is greatly dependent on the parent. In order to