Guess what? Playing can be pretty good for your health! That's right, some kinds of play, like a game of tag or Red Rover, can be pretty good for you. That's because you are being physically active and scientists found that physically active people tend to lead healthier lives. So, you might be asking, what does this have to do with Parks and Recreation Month? Well, more scientists say that there is a link between how many parks and recreation facilities exist in your neighborhood and how healthy you are. Of course, the closer you are to a park or recreation area, the more likely you are to use it. So, if there is a park close to your home, gather a bunch of your friends or your family and head to the park.

Fun things to do at the park:

• Go on a wilderness hike through the park.
• Play a game of tag, red rover, or hide and seek.
• Take a tree or bird identification book and see if you can find some stuff in the book.
• Take roller skates or inline skates and roll the day away.
• Play basketball, baseball, or any other sport you have the equipment for.
• Have a picnic.

• Always stay in groups of two or more.
• Always tell a trusted adult where you are going.
• If you are at the park at dusk or at night be sure there are lights on the paths, courts, or parking lots you are using.
• Carry at least a dollar in change so you can make a phone call if you have to-or-carry a cell phone.
• Take plenty of water with you-it's important to stay hydrated!

Links:

National Recreation and Park Association
Sierra Club
American Hiking Society