Mother Nature’s Child Film Screening & Discussion

Join Groundwork Somerville’s Gardens Coordinator for this highly acclaimed film screening and discussion:

The film Mother Nature’s Child addresses the increasing need for all children—toddlers through teens—to have unstructured time outdoors. The film explores the powerful role of nature in children’s health and development, interlacing interviews with adult experts and activists who advocate for connecting children and nature with inspiring footage of children playing outdoors in the wilds. Mother Nature’s Child asks many important questions, including: Why is it imperative for children to have unstructured time outdoors in nature? How is play a form of learning? Why are teachers resistant to taking students outside? What does it mean to educate the ‘whole’ child?

After the film, we will have an informal discussion with a number of local agencies and individuals, including Tai Dinnan from Groundwork Somerville, who offer opportunities for children and families to be in nature. This will also be an opportunity to meet representatives of the Growing Center and learn about their programs and how to get involved, from running your own group to using the garden as an outdoor classroom. And participants will be invited to join a raffle to win a copy of the book Naturally Curious: A Photographic Field Guide and Month-by-Month Journey Through the Fields, Woods, and Marshes of New England.

If you are concerned about children’s health (nature deficit disorder, child obesity, attention disorders, depression), holistic education, outdoor play and connecting children with nature, please join us on Wednesday, March 14.