Kids Get It!

My kids are just old enough to take our small dog, Ernie, around the block for a short walk. They don't have to cross any streets, it takes about 5 minutes and they LOVE the independence. Today they leashed the little rascal up and headed for the door. About three minutes into the walk, my son came barreling back through the door in a small panic. This, of course, sent me into a small panic. What was up? He shouted with adequate amounts of drama, "I need a bag - Ernie pooped!" I grabbed one of our poop bags and sent him on his way to take care of the poop, feeling relief that there was no real emergency.

The reason I relay this story is because it demonstrates a fundamental key to the Leave No Trace program - kids. If we can get to kids while they're young and impressionable, they develop a deep and lasting ethic. There was no debate this morning about whether or not they should pick up the poop. The did it because it was simply part of enjoying the outdoors with a dog. There are so many ways to make a positive and lasting Leave No Trace impression on kids. Check out our PEAK program for ideas and be looking for additional, downloadable kid resources later this summer.