Take your adventures outside this Spring Break!
By Sierra Club BC Environmental Educator Kirsten Dallimore
March 7 2017
Looking to get the kids outdoors and into nature over the spring break? Interested in joining a group of like-minded kids and families? Check out my recommendations for keeping nature connected and learning something new this spring break.
Getting outside over the spring break is something that we all look forward to doing. The sounds and smells of spring are in the air and we must embrace all the new discoveries that arrive this time of year in nature. The kids are anxious to explore, to play outdoor games and to experience life beyond the four walls of a classroom. Depending where you live, this might be your first opportunity since last summer to explore the beach or go for a hike in the forest without deep snow.
Having grown up in Ontario, I have always associated this time of year with Maple Season and the sound of water melting. The days are getting longer and the temperatures are warming up. The sounds of the spring peepers can be heard in the distance. Animals and birds are moving about and making more of an appearance. I grew up visiting my local conservation parks, learning how to make maple syrup and taking part in an interpretive guided hike program. I loved spending my time splashing in puddles after the thaw of a long winter. It is such a magical time of year for kids to be able to run, play and splash around in puddles and get excited about the tree buds, blossoms and birds. We can all hope after a long winter that spring is finally in the air!
Students at Quadra Elementary. Photo by Craig Janzen.
Regional parks in your own community are amazing places for the entire family to explore and learn something new. They are a great spot to experience and learn about all the changes that are taking place in nature. During March break, many parks host events that will get you out to learn about wildlife such as bees, birds and beavers. The variety of family-friendly drop-in events as well as guided interpretive hikes are sure to be a hit for all ages.
If you are looking for a nature program for the kids during March break, why not check out what’s happening in regional parks in the Capital Regional District or Metro Vancouver?
If you live or are planning to visit Tofino over the March break and are looking for an incredible opportunity for your child to become immersed into nature each day with like-minded kids, you definitely should check out Tofino Nature Kids. They are facilitating a spring break camp at the Tofino Botanical Gardens for ages 5-9 years old which will include a variety of activities such as fire making, games, songs and stories. Kids will build on their nature skills and connect through play while taking part in this program with Tofino Nature Kids.
There are also great programs happening in the Central Okanagan and the Kootenays!
Wherever you find yourself this spring break with the kids, remember to take a moment to reflect and embrace this wonderful awakening in nature. I encourage you to take your adventures outside and see and experience something new.
Happy exploring!
Feature image by Craig Janzen.
