instructions

  • please download a copy of one of the three posters available on this site. The poster sizes are as follows: large 12"x18", medium 11"x17", and small 8.5" x 11".
  • Right-click the desired poster links and choose save.
  • The preferred poster size to use is 12"x18".
  • the poster code labels are designed to fit over the code spaces on the 12"x18" poster. If you are using either of the smaller posters please trim the code labels so that they do not cover other parts of the poster.
  • if you have any questions about the posters, codes, or usage please contact ODNR 265.6842

Resources for our partners

Online Resource Center for partners of the Explore the Outdoors program.

The Ohio Department of Natural Resources appreciates the dedication of its partners who are committed to leading Ohio’s youth into the outdoors. Please make use of these resources as you help Ohio’s young people discover the excitement and diversity of our natural world.

What is Explore the Outdoors?

Explore the Outdoors Ohio is a comprehensive program developed to provide adults with an easy guide to lead Ohio’s young people into the outdoors so that they may, together, enjoy the many benefits of the natural world. It provides a selection of outdoor activities that adults and children can enjoy together and rewards young people who complete the activities.

Explore the Outdoors Activity Guide

Booklet contains 13 activity ideas and information for young people. (view or download here) For multiple copies, call 614. 784. 7529 or email explore@dnr.state.oh.us.

Explore the Outdoors Instructors Guide

Packet contains a variety of activities that educators can do with youth click to download

Tell Others about Explore the Outdoors

If you find this program exciting and valuable, chances are others will as well. Download the Explore the Outdoors summary and post it to your MySpace, Facebook or other social networking sites. Click to download

Explore the Outdoors News Release

If your local park is taking part in Explore the Outdoors, please download and complete this news release. If you need assistance contacting the media, contact Heidi Hetzel-Evans at 614-265-6860.

Explore the Outdoors in the Media

Explore the Outdoors is making headlines. Click to read articles about the program, events and how it is making an impact on Ohio children.

Other Useful Information and Resources

“...today’s generation of children would rather play video games or surf the Internet than hang out outside.” -USA Today
Get ‘Em Outside video – This video celebrates the value of environmental education. Richard Louv, Nature Clubs on Today Show – NBC’s Today Show featured a report on nature–deficit disorder and one parent’s efforts to help other families connect with nature. Childhood Pastimes are Increasingly Moving Indoors.

Statistical Summaries

Active Living Research, Robert Wood Johnson Foundation
Childhood obesity stats and facts, National Association of Children’s Hospitals and Related Institutions

Studies and Research

Outdoor Recreation Participation Report, The Outdoor Foundation
Kids Picking TV over Trees, The Nature Conservancy

News Reports

Remember ‘go outside and play?’, LA Times Commentary
Fears Keep Children Indoors, BBC
No Outdoor Play Hurts Children, BBC
Young Not Allowed Out to Play, BBC
Child Obesity is at Crisis Point, ESPN
Childhood Pastimes Increasingly Move Indoors, USA Today
As Childhood Obesity Rates Rise, Youth Outdoor Participation Declines, Medical News Today
Hyper-Parenting, Little Time for Nature, TVOParents.org

Feedback

ODNR appreciates your partnership and values your opinions. Please let us know if you have feedback on the Explore the Outdoors program. Send a message to explore@dnr.state.oh.us or call 614. 784. PLAY (7529).