If you are a regular reader of my blogs, you may have noticed the decreased frequency of my postings. Having had a baby 8 weeks ago, I am in baby land and on baby time. I am sure anyone that has been there knows that baby land is a destination off the map and baby time has its own rhythm that does not correspond with GMT, EST, or any other time zone! However the joys of motherhood are a tremendous reward and I’m very happy that I’ll be raising my child in the Caribbean.
Richard Louv in his book “Last Child in the Woods” identified a phenomenon affecting young people which he called ‘
Nature Deficit Disorder.’ This disorder which has many subsequent negative effects is due to a lack of time spent in the natural world
caused by increasing urbanization and the popularity of television and electronic games. I grew up in the English countryside but almost every natural area I used to play in has now been converted to housing estates and car parks! Now I live in Dominica, I know that my baby girl will be able to experience the many joys of the untamed natural world and be stimulated by the birds, trees and butterflies. Whatever island, the warm weathers of the Caribbean make it possible for a child to play outdoors year round which is vital for their health and wellbeing.
Louv’s book has sparked a nationwide movement in the US entitled ‘Leave no Child Inside’. As the name suggests,
this campaign encourages and gives opportunities for young people to get outside and exploring the natural world. Whilst all Caribbean islands vary in their accessibility to nature, most have a simpler and more relaxed way of living that allows children to grow at a slower pace and more connected to the natural world. Whether it is climbing trees, swimming in the sea or splashing in a river, it is a great feeling to be outdoors as much as possible.
Ah…baby calls again…So until next time I hope you enjoy every opportunity to be in nature and that you can take a child with you!
