National Parks Traveler
Congress Designates May 16 As National Kids To Parks Day
By NPT Staff
Congress has designated Saturday, May 16, as National Kids to Parks Day. The U.S. Senate unanimously approved the bipartisan resolution to encourage children and families across the country to spend more time outdoors, especially in the nation’s parks. The resolution was led by Senators Cindy Hyde-Smith, R-Miss., and Ron Wyden, D-Ore.
“Time outdoors gives children the chance to be active, curious, and connected to the world around them,” said Hyde-Smith. “National Kids to Parks Day is a great reminder for families to step away from screens, explore our parks and trails, and enjoy the natural beauty we’re fortunate to have in Mississippi and across the country.”
The Kids to Parks initiative was created by the National Park Trust in 2011 to encourage children and families to explore the outdoors. According to the new resolution, the goals of National Kids to Parks Day are to promote healthy outdoor recreation and responsible environmental stewardship; to empower young people; and to encourage families to get outdoors and visit the parks and public land of the United States.
“We are excited that National Kids to Parks Day is commemorating its Sweet 16 – 16 years of park celebration and appreciation on May 16th,” said Grace Lee, executive director of National Park Trust. “Spending time enjoying our public lands and parks plays a vital role in children’s health and well-being. We also believe that kids who grow up exploring parks are more likely to become the future stewards these spaces need to thrive.”