Letters

This past year has challenged us in ways that, a year ago, we could not have imagined. Fear of illness, isolation and loneliness, and a pervasive sense of anxiety have become our uninvited roommates, draining us daily of our energy, our optimism and our hope.

As adults, we can access resources and remember the challenges we have come through in the past. But what about the children? How can we help them navigate these challenges of isolation, anxiety, frustration and stress at a time in their lives when they’re designed to be out and about, forging friendships, learning new skills? As parents, teachers and caregivers, what do we have that is readily available to relieve the stress and challenges when going to school may mean facing a screen for hours a day?

Consider the great outdoors and the healing benefits of nature. The virus has separated us from family and friends, but what if we imagine ourselves as members of a bigger family, at one with nature and all her creatures. Children do this instinctively; they are wired to investigate the natural world and find joy and wonder in it.

It is vital that we encourage and give our children opportunities to engage in this world.

Richard Louv, journalist, author and chair emeritus of the Children & Nature Network, warns us about what he coined as “nature deficit disorder” — that time spent out-of-doors is necessary for cognitive, emotional and social development.

When children come in contact with nature, they learn to deal with fear, they discover their strengths, and they develop the constructs necessary for lifelong learning. Nature teaches us many lessons. We are reminded every season that from decay springs life, that plants, insects and animals have an interconnected relationship, and the health of one is vital to the existence of the others.

Now, with much of life’s activities so limited, is the perfect opportunity to visit parks, wildlife reserves and refuges. Now is the time to plan a garden, research native plants and learn about the importance of pollinators. One discovery leads to another, and children realize they can make a difference with their efforts.

No adult or child should suffer from “nature deficit.” Relieve the stress and connect with nature. Here’s a guide to start your planning. Full information can be found on the respective websites: Bridge Gardens, Bridgehampton; Cupsogue Beach County Park, Westhampton; Hallock State Park Preserve, Riverhead; Indian Island County Park, Riverhead; Longhouse Reserve, East Hampton; Madoo Conservancy, Sagaponack; Mashomack Preserve, Shelter Island; Elizabeth A. Morton Wildlife Refuge, Sag Harbor; Quogue Wildlife Refuge, Quogue; Shinnecock Inlet, Hampton Bays.

Peggy Veziris

Donna Levy

Conservation Committee

Westhampton Garden Club