Nature Rocks has created a Summer Activity Guide with several activity ideas (with instructions and tips) so families can all make the most of the 2010 summer season.
You can check out the complete guide on the website, which includes background information on Geocaching (geocaching is a high-tech treasure hunt that can help engage your kids in the natural world), tips on preparing healthy summer snacks and more).
Capping of the list of things to do this summer is the the “60 Miles in 60 Days” Family Walk Challenge organized by Nature Rocks and the American Heart Association. Set a goal for your family and you’ll enjoy time together while practicing a healthy lifestyle — what’s better than something that’s fun and good for you too? Those interested in “60 Miles in 60 Days” can sign up at StartWalkingNow.org and visit NatureRocks.org to download a free guide – complete with tips, a walking checklist and mileage tracker – to help complete the challenge safely and successfully.
Cheerio Picnic (30-minute activity)
Start the day off right by having a breakfast picnic! Spread a blanket on the grass in your yard or a nearby park, then plunk down for a feast of cereals, juice, toast, fruit and other healthy treats. While you’re at it, check out the clouds, the ants and the birds.
Tips
1. Try some experiments to see which foods attract ants. Drop a few pieces of fruit on the ground. How long does it take for an ant to find it?
2. Be breakfast bird biologists. As you eat, talk about every activity you see a bird doing, such as flying, walking, preening, or singing.
Little Miss or Mister Sunshine (1-hour activity)
Have your kids capture the joy or beauty of nature through a photograph, video, drawing, sketching, poem or collection of natural items. Then use their creations to brighten the day of someone who can’t get outdoors much— a hospital patient, a nursing home resident, or even just a busy office worker! I just used these Procreate brushes for drawing and sketching with my kids, why don’t you try too?
Tips
1. You can find shadow boxes at local crafts stores and assemble a combination of nature sketches and objects inside.
2. A vase of fresh flowers is a great way to brighten the day of someone stuck indoors.
Pie Party (1/2 or Full day activity)
Go berry picking! Blueberries, strawberries, raspberries, blackberries—filling a bucket of any of these fruits is a great way to connect with nature on a summer day. When you get home, make a couple of berry pies and invite friends and neighbors to enjoy the bounty.
Tips
1. Bring along a storybook, such as Blueberries for Sal or Jamberry to read in the shade while you take a snack break.
2. Encourage your kids to think about—and look for signs of—other creatures that may love summer berries, too.
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