If Nature Play Is Essential, It Must Be Safe for All Kids, Including Black Children

Have you ever worried that letting your kids play outside might be dangerous? It’s a common concern. However, as a mother of Black children, I face the added worry that the color of their skin, something they cannot change, places them in harm’s way. This is a painful reality that we must confront.

The harsh truth is that systemic racism impacts the safety of outdoor play for Black children in several ways. This is particularly troubling since we know that engaging with nature is crucial for a child’s growth and development. If nature play is vital for all kids, we must prioritize making it safe for Black youth as well.

Some may roll their eyes and question why race needs to be part of this conversation. But it’s easy to dismiss these issues when you don’t have to worry that your child’s skin color might endanger them. I want my children to experience the joys of nature play without fear, but I can’t ignore the realities we face.

The Importance of Nature Play

Nature play involves children engaging in unstructured activities within natural settings. This type of play is known to enhance problem-solving skills, foster creativity, encourage healthy risk-taking, and develop social skills. Moreover, it boosts focus, elevates mood, strengthens muscles, and enhances the immune system. Not to mention, it cultivates a profound connection with the environment.

Nature play encompasses a range of activities—climbing trees, digging in the dirt, and catching bugs. It includes hiking, camping, and exploring natural landscapes—experiences that every child should be able to enjoy without hesitation.

Racism and Outdoor Play

So, how does racism intersect with something as innocent as kids playing outdoors?

First, most children play in their neighborhoods. Unfortunately, Black children, especially Black boys, are often over-policed in these spaces. Groups of Black kids are frequently viewed as loitering or even engaging in gang activity. A Black child simply walking down the street can be seen as suspicious. Concerns about police harassment and abuse of power loom large in communities of color.

My son, who is 15 and about 5’9”, loves to skateboard and stroll through our neighborhood while wearing his favorite hoodie, regardless of the temperature. He should feel free to enjoy these activities, but I worry that someone might perceive him as a threat, leading to dire consequences. It’s disheartening to have to make him aware of this reality, robbing him of his childhood innocence.

Tragically, some Black children have lost their lives because of these issues. Tamir Rice was shot by a police officer while playing with a toy gun at just 12 years old. Seventeen-year-old Trayvon Martin was killed simply for walking home, and Ahmaud Arbery was shot while jogging. These heartbreaking stories highlight a broader trend that cannot be ignored.

The Role of Public Spaces

Public outdoor spaces like parks and beaches are essential for nature play, offering activities like hiking, camping, and swimming. However, these spaces are often less diverse than one might hope. According to National Parks Service data, only 7% of visitors to national parks are Black.

I can relate to this firsthand. I hike regularly with a friend in a diverse area, and while we sometimes bring our kids along, it’s uncommon to encounter other Black families on our hikes. It’s become a somewhat ironic joke for us, but it underscores a troubling reality.

The lack of diversity in outdoor spaces isn’t solely due to access; historical factors play a significant role. Many public parks, beaches, and pools remained segregated until after the Civil Rights Act of 1964. Although progress has been made, there’s still a significant gap in culturally relevant programming and representation among park staff.

Alex Taylor, founder of Black Adventures, has taken numerous groups of Black kids camping in state parks. He prepares staff in advance to ensure that they feel safe and welcomed, understanding that his campers may stand out. He emphasizes the importance of making sure Black youth know they belong in nature and that this message should be reinforced among park staff and fellow campers.

Conclusion

Ultimately, nature play should be just as safe for Black kids as it is for all children. They deserve to feel secure and free to play in outdoor spaces. While I don’t have all the answers to ensure safety for Black kids during nature play, I believe awareness is a crucial first step. In the meantime, I will continue to introduce my children to as many outdoor adventures as possible.

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Summary:

This article highlights the urgent need to address the safety of Black children during outdoor play. While nature play is crucial for all children’s development, systemic racism creates unique challenges for Black kids, affecting their freedom to engage in outdoor activities. With historical barriers still impacting access to public spaces, it’s vital to raise awareness and advocate for inclusivity in nature play.