MASON CITY – The Lime Creek Nature Center is excited to announce the availability of two “Explore Outdoors” packs (one bird theme and one trees and forests theme) available for public checkout.
Former Naturalist Intern Lesley Sheridan completed the packs for her Intern Project during her term of employment at the center.
Each theme-based pack contains activities and materials designed as a resource and guide for elementary-aged kids and their adult helpers to have fun and meaningful experiences in nature. They contain materials and activities to engage children in outdoor experiences and help connect them to the natural world.
Much research emerging in the last decade supports what many of us already instinctually know – it is good to spend time outside. By spending time outside, people connect with the natural world and enhance their physical, mental, and spiritual wellness through the benefits of experiencing nature.
The Explore Outdoors Packs are ideal for using at your favorite county conservation areas, but are also great for exploring the backyard, a park, or to bring along on a weekend camping trip. Outdoor fun is the reward for any elementary school-aged child/adult combination that checks out a Pack and completes the activities inside.
Try building a bird nest, play bird behavior bingo, or construct a bird feeder from recycled materials with the Bird Pack; or make an edible leaf, visit the Rotten Log Hotel, and go on a scavenger hunt with the Trees and Forests Pack. These packs are great for parents and kids, scout group outings, and youth group meetings too.
Look for additional packs with themes like Insects, Prairies, Water, and Reptiles as they become available in the future. Packs can be checked out free of charge from the Lime Creek Nature Center office Monday through Friday between 7:30 AM and 4:00 PM. The loan period for the packs is two weeks and a signed personal check must be provided as collateral for any lost or damaged items at the time of check-out. Call 423-5309 to reserve a pack today!
