Cary Invites Families to Explore the Outdoors During Take a Child Outside Week

• Take a Child Outside Week, Sept. 24-30, encourages children and adults to spend time together outdoors and discover the natural world.
• Families can make the most of the week by exploring Cary's parks, greenways, and outdoor spaces, along with opportunities offered through Cary's recreation and nature programs.
• Find ways to get outside during Take a Child Outside Week at carync.gov/TACO.

CARY, NC - Cary is inviting families to step outside and discover something new during Take a Child Outside Week, Sept. 24-30, with opportunities to explore the parks, trails, and natural spaces found throughout the community. The annual observance encourages children and adults to spend time together outdoors, building a greater understanding and appreciation of the natural world along the way.

Take a Child Outside Week began in North Carolina and has grown into an international effort to reconnect children with the natural world. Inspired by Richard Louv's book "Last Child in the Woods," the initiative encourages outdoor play and simple activities that can help make nature part of everyday life.

In Cary, families do not have to travel far to start exploring. A walk along a greenway, a visit to a neighborhood park, time spent looking for wildlife, or an afternoon discovering the outdoors together can all be part of the week.

"Spending time in nature gives children and families opportunities to explore, be active, and connect with their community. It's a chance to discover the places and wildlife that make Cary home. With more than 30 parks and over 100 miles of greenway, and our programs, there are many ways for families to get outside, be active, and experience the outdoors where they live," said Andrew Marsden, Services Manager - Parks.

Research and resources shared by the North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources point to a range of benefits associated with spending time outdoors, including supporting creative thinking and problem-solving, increasing physical activity and connection with nature, and reducing stress and anxiety.

Take a Child Outside Week is also an invitation to build a habit that lasts beyond Sept. 30. Families can continue exploring Cary's outdoor spaces throughout the year, whether they have an entire afternoon for an adventure or just a few minutes to step outside together.

Visit carync.gov/TACO for Take a Child Outside Week information, programs, registration details, and more ways to explore.

Primary Contacts

If you have specific questions, visit carync.gov/311, dial 311 anywhere in Cary, (919) 469-4000 outside Town limits, or email [email protected].

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