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What
kind of playground is more appealing to you - one with thriving green
trees that offer a spot of color and shade on warm days, or an asphalt-covered
expanse with black and gray as far as the eye can see?
Although asphalt may be easier to maintain, a growing body of evidence
shows that trees and grass are good for kids. Not only are trees an
important part of a hospitable playground environment, they offer
other benefits as well.
Studies have shown that kids who
spend more time in “green” environments - places with grass,
plants, and trees, have fewer concentration and ADD problems, score
slightly higher on tests, and are more likely to feel calm.
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of the authors of these studies had this to say about the importance of
trees: |
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“Before we started our research, I would have said trees are
nice, but the problems we’re facing in our cities and our budgets
are such that I’m not sure they’re worth it. I think that
through this research, I have become convinced that trees are really
an important part of a supportive, humane environment. Without vegetation,
people are very different beings.”
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studies have also shown that a green environment can have a positive effect
on the way people (and kids) work: |
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don't have to head for the woods to enjoy nature's restorative effects",
the Kaplans emphasize." Even a glimpse of nature from a window helps."
In one well-known study, for instance, Rachel Kaplan found that "office
workers with a view of nature liked their jobs more, enjoyed better health,
and reported greater life satisfaction." |
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read the entire article,click
here. |
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The program is a cooperative effort between Milwaukee
Public Schools, the City’s Forestry Division, and Greening Milwaukee. |
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your school would like to participate in the Greening Milwaukee Schools
program, please contact: |
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Joe Wilson, Executive Director
Greening Milwaukee
1313 W. Mt Vernon Ave.
Milwaukee, WI, 53233
Phone:(414)272-5462
Fax:(414)272-5060
joewilson@greeningmilwaukee.org
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