New York Launches Urgent Literacy Trail to Boost Outdoor Learning

UPDATE: The New York State Office of Children and Family Services (OCFS) has launched a groundbreaking outdoor literacy program called the Literacy Trail, aimed at enhancing children’s mental and physical health. Announced by Governor Kathy Hochul during her 2025 State of the State Address, this initiative is part of the broader “Unplug and Play” campaign, encouraging families to connect with nature while promoting literacy.

The Literacy Trail pairs 10 children’s books with 10 parks across the New York State Parks system, offering children a unique opportunity to engage with literature while enjoying outdoor activities. This initiative is urgent as it addresses a critical need for children to balance screen time with physical activity and creative exploration.

“Research suggests that access to the outdoors yields substantial educational and health benefits,” said OCFS Commissioner Dr. DaMia Harris-Madden. She emphasized the importance of the trail in fostering social, emotional, and physical well-being. Families are encouraged to visit state parks to read, explore, and experience the beauty of nature.

The selected parks for the Literacy Trail include:
– **Allegany State Park**
– **Letchworth State Park**
– **Watkins Glen State Park**
– **Green Lakes State Park**
– **Point Au Roche State Park**
– **Mine Kill State Park**
– **Thacher State Park**
– **Taconic State Park**
– **Clay Pit Ponds State Park**
– **Hempstead Lake State Park**

During the launch event at Taconic State Park, officials highlighted the health risks associated with sedentary lifestyles and the detrimental effects of excessive social media use. The Literacy Trail aims to combat these issues by inviting families to get outdoors and engage with nature through reading.

Each park will distribute a limited number of the selected books on a first-come, first-served basis to families visiting the parks. OCFS Deputy Commissioner for the Division of Child Care Services Nora Yates stated,

“We hope that you read these books with children of all ages and use them as an invitation to get moving and to get outside!”

Not only does the trail offer free books, but it also promotes key themes of curiosity, creativity, and sensory exploration, directly linking childhood experiences to the natural world. Families unable to visit the featured parks are encouraged to check their local libraries for the books and to explore nearby parks or historic sites.

This initiative is part of ongoing programming by the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation (OPRHP), which includes activities such as “Story Book Walks,” bilingual story hours, and Nature Book Clubs.

For more information on the Literacy Trail and to access a complete list of participating parks and books, visit the OCFS website. This innovative program not only enhances literacy skills but also fosters a deeper connection between children and the outdoors, making it a vital resource for families across New York.

As families gear up for the weekend, the Literacy Trail stands as a timely reminder of the joys of reading and the benefits of outdoor exploration. Don’t miss this opportunity to enrich your child’s life—get outside, grab a book, and embark on a new adventure today!