New Form of Social Space Wild Zones and ‘Create-with-Nature’ Zones help create a web of relationships across boundaries of age, gender, class and ethnicity. They are a new form of social space - and, in particular a different kind of relationship between young people and adults which is not based on an educational model of giving information or eliciting correct answers. Not based on rewards or competition. A 'zone' that provides a context for adults and young people to relate to each other by playing around without pre-established goals or agendas. In the Wild Zone people can engage in spontaneous work and play which may result in wonderful friendships or remarkable things that intrigue and delight other people. But it is also a place just to wonder and to wander in nature - to muck about or reflect or find solace - without having to achieve anything. Wild Zones offer a proactive and holistic response to 'nature-deficit disorder' - the term coined by Richard Louv to describe the aggregate of childhood ills linked to a lack of free play in nature. When thinking about social problems, most people and institutions, including schools, are using a 'deficit' model. They are focused on what people don't know and what their problems are. Wild Zones use an 'asset-based' approach that starts from people's abilities, interests and potentials, rather than their problems or needs. They offer many pathways to increase social and emotional intelligence. New Land Use Concept This new land-use concept gives priority to the crucial need of current generations to enjoy hands-on engagement with nature that is playful and creative, while continuing to respect the interests of other species and future generations by protecting some natural areas in a pristine state. By offering the pleasures of creativity and community, Wild Zones encourage a sense of affection for the natural world which can help counterbalance the onslaught of frightening news about ecological degradation. We believe that a high level of commitment to ecological responsibility and protection can best be ignited and sustained through love and enjoyment rather than fear. Wild Zones could be a half acre on the edge of an urban park, or several acres at an existing environmental education center, nature reserve or other open space. Wild Zones can also be created on marginal, derelict or post-industrial land that could be "re-wilded": restored over time to a more diverse ecosystem by a community working and playing together to create unique place that celebrates natural and human diversity. "Let the wild rumpus begin!" Did you ever feel your heart leap at that clarion call in Maurice Sendak's “Where the Wild Things Are? Let the wild rumpus start!" Yes, please!