Richard Louv, author of the book Last Child in the Woods: Saving Our Children from Nature-Deficit Disorder has coined the term Nature-Deficit Disorder to describe what research shows is a lack of appreciation of nature in children today. Some of our children are urban bound and do not have access to state parks or other nature centers. However, Mr. Louv describes most of our children as overly 'plugged in.' They spend most of their time in front of the computer, television, or video games and too little time outside playing, camping, fishing, biking, hiking, or taking part in other outdoor activities that foster an appreciation for nature.

Richard Louv is a co-founder of the Children and Nature Network, an organization which seeks to education parents, teachers, and other adults about the importance of fostering an appreciation of nature in our children. To learn more about the Network, please see www.childrenandnature.org.

I would like to take this opportunity to point out some vacation destinations in Florida that you and your family can enjoy together which will help foster an appreciation of nature in your children.

Boggy Creek Airboat Rides take riders into the Florida Everglades to see birds, turtles, and other animals in their natural environment. Please visit www.bcairboats.com for tour information.

Eco Safaris are available at Forever Florida. Your family will have an opportunity to see how a real ranch is run. You can take a safari in a coach or on horseback. You may see panthers, bears, bobcats, coyote or other animals in their natural habitats. Please visit www.floridaecosafaris.com for the many options available.

Gatorland has educational wildlife programs, reptile shows and more. It is a themepark and wildlife preserve. Please visit www.gatorland for more information.

Children love petting farms! Green Meadows Petting Farm has more than 300 animals and is in a pristine country setting. They provide a 2-hour tour. Visitors will enjoy petting animals like cows, pigs, donkeys, and more. Please visit www.greenmeadowsfarm.com.

Silver Springs Nature Park Ocala, FL. Ride in glass bottom boats to view underwater springs, fish, shellfish, turtles, and alligators. Visit the petting zoo and see habitats of endangered species. Visit their website at www.silverprings.com.