Trees: A Weapon Against Skin Cancer & Childhood Obesity?

Playing in natural shade.
Image by Bryan Farley

People, especially kids, have always dealt with summer sun.  Usually it doesn't prevent them from going outside to play.  But research now shows a growing risk of skin cancer in kids.  Futhermore, we are all aware by now about the childhood obesity issue in the U.S.


At a time when one out of three children are obese, a movement is growing to provide more shade at playgrounds, parks, and pools, to reduce future cancer risks and promote exercise.  Shade structures are one way to go, but many feel that trees are a more natural option.


Across the U.S., communities are working to make school play areas greener, with more trees, shrubs and natural shade.  In Northern California, a grass-roots outfit called Canopy is planting 1,000 trees over the next four years at inner city schools.   In New York, kids are also getting some relief, as the city is about half-way done with its goal of planting one million trees over 10 years.


To take it one step further, many feel that playgrounds designed in harmony with nature is the best way to offer shade, and that the benefits go way beyond comfort and health prevention.


"It takes you back to the days when playing outside meant you're among nature - birds, flowers, trees." says Tony Valenti, president and certified arborist at First Choice Tree Service.  "I can't think of a better place to cool off other than under a mature tree."


In Nevada, Valenti and his peers feel that natural play is the best way to go. “Research has shown how outdoor play provides limitless benefits to children, such as combating childhood obesity, but being in touch with nature broadens their growth and enrichment” says Donnie Garritano, owner of D&K Landscape.


So, the word is out.  What is next?  We can use the help of parents to spread the word to city and county officials and encourage more trees to be planted in schools, parks, playgrounds and communities.  Let's work together in this movement!