KAWARTHA LAKES-A unique and popular program connecting parents and their toddlers to nature is making a return to Ken Reid Conservation Area this year.
The program allows parents or caregivers and their young children, ages 2-4, to connect with nature in a safe, nurturing environment, providing quality time and learning through fun crafts, sensory games, circle times, sharing, stories and more.
“We offered this program last year and the feedback was wonderful,” explained Nancy Aspden, Coordinator, Environmental Programs/GIS Specialist. “This program provides a really rich, enjoyable, immersive experience for the child and the parent or caregiver.”
The program will be held at Ken Reid Conservation Area and will provide a morning of outdoor activities lead by a Kawartha Conservation educator.
“The aim of the program is to provide a hands-on bonding experience, introducing, or re-introducing, nature to both the children and their parents or caregivers,” said Ms. Aspden. “Through a variety of outdoor activities and experiences, participants benefit from both the structured, hands-on time as well as the documented benefits of being in nature.”
The cost for all 12 sessions is $180. The cost for six sessions is $90, and the cost per individual session is $20.
“We know that spending time in nature has a host of benefits for people,” explained Kristie Virgoe, Director of Stewardship and Conservation Lands. “From reduced anxiety, to improving blood flow and breathing, being outside amongst trees can have amazing mental and physical health benefits.”
The Parent and Tot Nature Program is held on Thursday mornings at Ken Reid Conservation Area from 9:30 – 11:30 a.m. The program runs May 17th, 24th, 31st, June 7th, 14th, 21st, July 12th, 19th, 26th, and August 16th, 23rd, 30th.
For more information visit www.kawarthaconservation.com/education, or contact Nancy Aspden at [email protected] or by phone at 705-328-2271 Ext. 218.
