Eugene Voykin is a born and raised Doukhobor on a “ROLL”, who loves the KOOTS!! This is what he’s gotta say . . .
Spring has arrived! What better time to pay tribute to the creation of all “organic” or living beings, that surround us every day. From the flora and fauna that is waking up from a cold and snow covered winter, to the excitement of getting your hands dirty in the yard and garden.
I was recently inspired by an article I read in Fernie, B.C. It read, “Which is a greater threat to nature: chainsaws, bulldozers, motorized off-road vehicles or the television/internet?” In my opinion, T.V.’s and computers are the greatest threat to nature; considering the fact that an average Canadian spends 26.8 hours in front of the T.V and 13.4 hours on the internet (CRTC, 2007).
This might explain why young children have an easier time identifying a corporate logo rather than insects, trees and flowers. All the while, the rate of child obesity in North America is on the rise. It’s even becoming more common for children to be medicated from numerous, AUTO-IMMUNE diseases, such as asthma, diabetes, child arthritis and eczema. The good news is, these things can very easily be prevented with the right lifestyle!
photo by: Jenn Keirstead; Eugene Voykin canoeing Wragge Lake, B.C.
Earth Day is also approaching; this tends to remind us to focus on community and conservation. It reminds us that there is still beauty and excitement in the changing seasons. It is the responsibility not only of the kids but their parents and grandparents to set examples. Getting offline, turning off the television and getting outside will open new and exciting doors while strengthening family networks.
Evidence in current academic research shows that it is healthy and important to get outside in the fresh air and vegetation to have FUN! Children who get outside are happier, healthier and smarter. They also learn discipline, cooperation, confidence and are likely to have a more optimistic view on life. These are qualities that any parent would be proud of. The brief time spent outside in the school yard at recess and lunch break just isn’t enough for kids. Well-known chef, Jamie Oliver hosts a T.V. program called, “FOOD REVOLUTION.” It’s focus is about changing the school food system in North America.
“Jamie Oliver’s goal is to prove that there is a direct relation between the food we feed our children, their energy levels, focus and concentration. Feeding both the body and the soul is often a missing link,” says Eugene.
Here are a few tips to get you started. Make sure that your children are prepared for outdoor exploration. Pack a healthy snack and water to keep them energized. Go to the local ball diamond to toss or kick a ball, skateboard at your local park. Mountain bike or take a walk on the many trails that are offered around the area, Check out: www.Castlegarfriendsofparkandtrails.org, it might get you going in the right direction. Learn about birds, tree species or tracking wildlife, looking at natural shapes, what little critters might lay under the next stone or just sit by the river. Or on those, “stay inside days,” why not go to the community center for a family swim or have a healthy sweat in the sauna.
The mental, spiritual, and physical well-being of our community depends on a healthy environment. Children need the assistance of adults to nurture the connection to the beauties of the outdoors. Green play and eating with the seasons may very well be the link to conserving nature.
Written by: Eugene Voykin – Selkirk IEP Student, Foodie, Skateboarder, Activist and Naturalist
