New inclusive resource to empower rangatahi in the outdoors

New resource by Education Outdoors New Zealand aims to increase gender equity and menstruation inclusiveness in the outdoors.

Designed for youth, educators and outdoor practitioners, ‘Going with the flow’ is a new multimedia resource from Education Outdoors New Zealand (EONZ) which aims to inspire positive changes to outdoor practice and culture for everybody.

EONZ co-chair, Sophie Watson, says the resource marks an important milestone in the way we view and manage periods in the outdoors.

“We want all young people, and adults, to be included and valued in their outdoor participation. That means we need to change some aspects of outdoor culture and practice.

“Research shows that for some young people, managing their period in the outdoors can be a challenging and isolating experience. Some students have said they want their teachers and outdoor leaders to be more active in their support of menstruating students.”

EONZ have recently become a partner of Sport NZ, aligning with the Active Recreation for Rangatahi Plan which is focused on creating better participation and wellbeing outcomes for rangatahi.

Sport NZ Active Recreation Consultant, Chloe Bishop says this work by EONZ is an example of an inclusive resource delivered in a youth-friendly and engaging way.

“Understanding how we can make experiences in the outdoors inclusive for everybody is a really important step towards ensuring all rangatahi feel empowered to participate in the outdoors.”

The co-designed resources include information about cultural perceptions and practices of menstruation, rainbow experiences in the outdoors, and practical tips and information on how people can manage their periods in the outdoors

They are free for everybody to access and include an information book, a video series and a series of lesson plans. View them here.