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12 Fredericksburg Parent and Family • June 2019 WRITTEN BY CHRISTA MELNYK HINES A photography safari, or photo scavenger hunt, is a creative, interactive way to usher your kids away from screens and out into nature this summer. Getting kids outside is more important than ever. The Kaiser Family Foundation reports that kids are spending upwards of seven hours a day with screen technology, which means less time outside playing. According to a nationwide poll conducted by The Nature Conservancy, only about 10 percent of children spend time outdoors every day. In the poll, kids said they aren't interested in being outside, they don't have access to parks or outdoor recreation or they're uncom- fortable outdoors. But spending time outdoors has numerous mental and physical health benefits. Research finds that kids who spend time out- side are more creative in their play, more physically active and have enhanced attention spans. And as they get older, children who've spent time outdoors show a greater appreciation for the environment. How to Plan a Photography Sample List for Your Photography Safari Snap photos of something: • Green • Furry • Red • Striped • Orange • In motion • Feathered • Round • Square • Oval have enhanced attention spans. And as they get older, children who've spent time outdoors show a greater appreciation for the environment. Safari I found that by taking my two sons, ages 13 and 11, out on a photography safari at one of our local parks, we were able to slow down and intentionally observe nature's quiet rhythm, including wildlife, insects and seasonal plants and colors. Here's how to plan a photography safari with your family.