If there ever was an outdoors Mr. Rogers to support children and parents when it comes to outdoor play, it would be Rusty Keeler, designer, author, and current Vice President of the USA Chapter of the International Play Association. He will speak at Sandhills Community College on Wednesday, April 9 at 7 p.m. in Owens Auditorium at Bradshaw Performing Arts Center.
His topic is on “Outdoor Play and Adventure: Healing the ‘Anxious Generation.’” The audience will learn three ways to promote outdoor play in any environment; explore the role of risky play in children’s healthy development; learn how to create space that invites adventure, creativity and independence; and see inspiring examples from programs around the world.
“In today’s tech savvy society, our children need to experience and learn the value of outdoor play and all that comes with it over a lifetime,” said Ronda Hawkins, M.Ed., Early Childhood Professor and NC Great Teachers Seminar Director. “We are thrilled to hear from the master of outdoor play and understand the importance it plays in child development.”
The International Play Association promotes inspiring and engaging activities that focus on the vital role of outdoor play in children’s development.
The evening, geared toward parents and educators, is sponsored by Vivian R. Jacobson, Jacobson Fellows Lecture Sponsor, and Sandhills Community College’s Early Childhood Education Program in honor of the 2025 Week of The Young Child.
Tickets are free but must be reserved at https://ticketmesandhills.com/events/rusty-keeler-outdoor-play-adventure-healing-the-anxious-generation-4-9-2025.