Nature expert Ruud Kleinpaste says we're breeding a generation of kids with Nature Deficit Disorder, children who are fearful of nature and would prefer to spend time in front of a computer screen than time in the bush. I don't think this is particular to this generation. Most children appreciate a trip to the beach or a farm - enjoying nature where stuff is happening and there are things to see and collect.
But nature in its most pure form - long walks through native bush - is not going to spin the wheels of many kids.
I can remember going on forced marches with Mum and Dad through the bush around Turangi.
When you're a child, there's not a lot to be said for dank, dark forests in 50 shades of green, with the smell of rotting vegetation all around. I would have much preferred to be back at home reading the latest Jackie magazine.
Nature, in its forest form, is a bit like oysters. You only appreciate it when you're an adult. Now, I can't wait to lace up my boots and head off for a bit of solitude, clean air and bird song. I treasure the green space around Auckland. Nature Deficit Disorder will correct itself in time.
