Nature

Outdoor Discovery Center

Another fun Holland destination is the Outdoor Discovery Center, where kids can head outside and explore the great outdoors!

Eco Trek Fitness

Have you ever heard of Eco Trekking?  If you love the outdoors, than this unique fitness trend is for you.

What is the Passport Program?

The Kent Conservation District has a unique program that encourages families to get outside and connect with nature.  The have six cool sites that offer simple ways that families can get outside and play.  For more information on the program and all of the sites visit www.kentconservation.org/families

Howard Christensen Nature Center

Located in Kent City, the Howard Christensen Nature Center is a special place that brings learning to life for kids and families.

Ada Township Park

Ada Township Park has year-round programming for kids of all ages.  Here’s a look at the “Signs of Spring” workshop they recently held for preschoolers and their parents.

Calvin College Ecosystem Preserve

On the campus of Calvin College there is an awesome ecosystem preserve for families to explore and connect with nature.

Wittenbach Wege Center

Located in Lowell, the Wittenbach Wege Argi-Science and Environmental Center has over 100 acres for kids to run, jump and play!

Blandford Nature Center

The Blandford Nature Center is one of the passport sites.  We stopped by to see how students at their school were making some cool projects with items found in nature.

Signs of Spring

This week I had the pleasure of hanging out with a special group of preschoolers and their moms at Ada Township Park.  As part of their Discovery Days program, the park held a workshop for area three to five year olds.  The class began with a hands-on nature inspired craft and then kids hit the trails to hear, see and smell the signs of spring. 

As a kid I remember those times where you’d head outside in the morning and fill an entire day with exploring your backyard or playing at the local park.  Today I feel like so many kids would rather stay inside and watch television or play video games.  What ever happened to good old fashion outdoor fun? 

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Kids Need A Dose of Nature

Recent studies show a big decline in the time our kids spend outdoors.  Whether it’s our fast-paced lifestyle or the attraction of television and the Internet, kids simply aren’t getting the dose of nature they need. 

Spending time outdoors is shown to have a variety of health benefits.  Kids who spend more time outdoors have lower rates of obesity, attention deficit disorder, depression and stress.  So, why wouldn’t you want to head outside as a family and have some fun? 

The Kalamazoo Nature Center is doing their part to reconnect kids to nature.  Located in Northern Kalamazoo County, the Kalamazoo Nature Center has over 1,100 acres for kids to explore through free play.  You can walk on 14 trails that take you through the woods, ponds and prairies.  There are also guided tours and variety of classes for all ages.

Check it out at http://www.naturecenter.org/Home/tabid/122/Default.aspx