I would like to add an anecdote related to this observation. A former
sister-in-law of mine used to lead field trips for New York City kids in
rural parks. The kids were mostly really tough types from rough
neighborhoods who acted up on the bus and were pretty intimidating. But once
they got into the woods with what to them were strange sounds and dark
thickets, they became quiet and obviously scared. And on overnight camping
trips they were absolutely terrified (granted, the call of an owl can be
pretty spooky!). Even the ones who weren't scared couldn't sleep, they found
the outdoors too noisy -- these kids who grew up with the sounds of horns
and sirens every night!
Bill Silvert
----- Original Message -----
From: "Teresa M. Woods" <[email protected]>
To: <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, December 22, 2008 6:14 PM
Subject: Re: [ECOLOG-L] Need suggestions for hands-on activity about trophic
efficieny/biomass pyramids
I am indeed disturbed by the dearth of direct experience many students
have with nature, though the ones that do are a breath of fresh air! It
may sound just too simple, but starting at a very young age, children need
such direct experiences.
