By Marla Ballard
Reporter
DEKALB COUNTY - National Play Outside Day goes mostly unnoticed, officially it is the first Saturday of every month, so that makes tomorrow - May 6th the next opportunity to participate. It is a day to put down the electronic devices, get off the sofa, pull away from the desk, ignore problems, and get outside and have some fun.
National Play Outside Day began in 2011 and was founded by Aaron Wiggans and Rhonda D. Abeyta because in 2011 it was reported that a mere 30 percent of all children in America were playing out of doors.
The duo recognized the digital age had changed people and their activities and they set out on a mission to challenge families to limit screen time.
One of the reasons for this designated play outside day is the hope that people will develop a lifetime habit of physical activity, create happy memories, and discover new interests.
The benefits of getting out of doors are numerous and include: freeing oneself from routine, relaxing the mind, and revitalizing the inner self.
Persons of all ages and physical abilities can participate in National Play Outside Day. Those with physical limitations can play a board game, blow bubbles, or sit outdoors and read.
The options for play are plentiful: ride a bike, hike, walk, jog, run, swim, play a sport, toss a ball or Frisbee, fish, camp, fly a kite, visit a: city, state, or national park, have a picnic, go horseback riding, go on a scavenger hunt, rock climb or repel, kayak or canoe, geocache, host an outdoor party, take photos, attend a festival, or go boating. Even in wintertime building a snowman or sledding can be enjoyed.
The Alabama Walking Park, located in downtown Fort Payne, is not just for children. A meditation garden located on the north end of the park and the walking track affords opportunities to all ages. The exercise equipment peppered along the path gives exercise enthusiasts more opportunities for increased health benefits. The splash pad and playground give’s children the needed activity for growing up healthy.
There is space, both at the Alabama Walking Park or at the Fort Payne City Park, to have a friendly soccer or football game. Picnic tables at both locations allow for both picnicking, board games, or arts and crafts.
Essentially all of the towns in DeKalb County have a park. Many have settings for outdoor sports such as basketball, volley ball, or tennis. Many of them have walking tracks.
DeKalb County Public Lake, located in Sylvania, is perfect for a stroll, biking, and boating. Bicyclists of all experience levels will find the road easy to travel along the 120-acre lake. The path is an in-and-out path that is a little over three miles in length. (Closed Tuesdays and Wednesdays).
If it is raining splash around in some puddles or take a raincheck for the next good weather weekend
