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The kids are growing restless; you're ready for a break from crafts, the park, board games and toys. And if someone whines "I'm booored..." just one more time, you may very well have a nervous breakdown. Thankfully, the first day of school is in sight. Still ... there's a lot of time between now and the start of school. What's an eco-mama to do?
A new experience can make a huge difference when the kids start getting restless (or anxious about the start of a new school year, as the case may be). A day away from the usual summer haunts learning about nature is often the best cure for that dreaded boredom, plus it offers a great back-to-school story for your kids when friends and teachers ask: "What did you do this summer?"
Whether you take a guided tour or you?re providing the entertainment, each of these day trips will teach your kids things about nature that they will carry with them throughout their lives. (And the exercise will wear them out!)
Hiking Trails
Hiking trails are all around, and the varying difficulty levels?from meandering trails around lakes to steep hikes up to bluffs or up mountains?and distance options make it a great option for most kids. Be sure to hike along a well-traveled trail, and bring plenty of water, snacks and a first aid kit. A cell phone for emergencies is also a good idea, but be forewarned: There may not be service if you're hiking in a remote area. During the hike, point out interesting plant species and talk to your kids about some of the animals that live in the area.
Tip: Be sure to tell friends where you are going and when you are expected to be back?that way if you get lost or are injured, someone can call the authorities.
Wildlife Rescues
The cousin of zoos, wildlife rescues take in animals that are sick, injured or abandoned by their mothers. While some animals need only a little time to recover before they are released back into the wild, others become desensitized to humans and must live out their lives at the rescue. This, of course, offers up wonderful opportunities for kids to learn about local wildlife and conservation efforts.
Tip: Animal interaction can be spectacular to kids, but make sure they stay a safe distance from enclosures of aggressive animals.
Botanical Gardens
Do the kids love helping out in the garden? Perhaps you have a budding botanist in your family? Or maybe your kids just like plants and trees? Take a day and visit your local botanical garden, where kids can learn about plant ecology and ecosystems?often as part of a daily (or more frequent) tour.
Tip: Ask staff about the busy areas and save those for early in the morning or an hour before closing?you'll enjoy things more if the kids have a little room to explore.
Conservation Areas
When it comes to eco-education, conservation areas offer the best opportunities to learn about ecology. This is the best option if you have kids with varying interests, as most places will offer programming that incorporates activities related plants and animals, some even teach basic outdoor survival skills. Short hikes are perfect for younger children, who would grow tired well before a longer hike is over.
Tip: Wear running shoes and take water, snacks and plenty of natural insect repellant.
Organic Farm
Farms are generally a big hit with kids, but an organic farm visit can afford the opportunity to teach your children about respect for the land, crops and livestock. Search online for farms that offer tours, and call to book a time if possible. If you can't find a farm that offers tours, look for farms that let you pick your own fruits or vegetables, then make the most of the opportunity to teach your kids about natural and organic foods.
Tip: Keep in mind that farms can be dangerous places, even if you're on a guided tour; make sure there is one adult or teenager for every two or three kids.
Cara Smusiak writes on behalf of Naturally Savvy.com about how to live a more natural, organic and green lifestyle.
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