Children spend less time outdoors than in the past. As a result, children today often have a poor understanding of how the natural world works and a lack of interest in enjoying and exploring the outdoors, sometimes referred to as Nature Deficit Disorder. Attention was drawn to this issue by Richard Louv, in his 2005 book Last Child in the Woods. As a result, nature centers and other outdoor education organizations have joined formal and informal networks that encourage children to get outside and explore.
As a part of this effort, a number of organizations have come together to offer a series of free events designed to encourage families to spend time outside together. Set aside your Tuesday nights this summer for your family to explore Barry County.
All programs are free and run from 6:30 - 8 pm. Call (269) 721-4190 to register. Or, register below through Eventbrite.
June 12 Family Night at Camp at Camp Algonquin (hosted by YMCA of Barry County)
Participants will join in a variety of fun activities at camp including games, a climbing wall, and a boat ride.
June 19 Nesting Season at Otis Sanctuary (hosted by Michigan Audubon Society)
A seasoned birder will help families identify common birds by sight and sound on this hike.
June 26 Paul Henry Trail Hike at the Middleville Stagecoach Park (hosted by the Chief Noonday Chapter of the North Country Trail Association)
A naturalist-led hike that will take in all of the experiences of the nearby Thornapple River.
July 10 Sticks and Splatters in Delton (hosted by Thornapple Arts Council)
Make a Jackson Pollock inspired piece of art. (Please check by after May 15 for exact location)
July 17 Thornapple River Exploration at McKeown Bridge Park (hosted by Thornapple Watershed Council)
July 24 Tree-rific! at Charlton Park (hosted by Carlton Park)
Through a hike and games, participants will learn the natural history of common trees.
July 31 Amazing Insects at Pierce Cedar Creek Institute (hosted by Pierce Cedar Creek Institute)
Go on a bug hunt exploring the wonderful diversity of insects around us.
August 7 Scavenger Hunt at Riverwalk Trail (hosted by Hastings Public Library)
August 14 Pond Exploration at Clear Lake Camp (hosted by Outdoor Education Center)
Get out on the boardwalk and catch pond critters.
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