Fun at the Park for Pennies or Less

GUEST BLOGGER: CHRISTINA PAY, USU EXTENSION ASSISTANT PROFESSOR

 When my children were young, one of the things they loved to do was go to the park.  As they grew, we visited our local parks, State parks and, the best loved of all, were the National park adventures we’d take. Parks are the perfect place for creating family memories and we still talk and laugh about the many park adventures we had.
Park fun doesn’t have to cost a lot.  In fact, many times you can experience fun at the park for pennies or less.  Last Saturday, May 16th, was the 10th anniversary of the Kids to Parks Day. With COVID-19 restrictions, the day was celebrated virtually. Understanding that nothing can replace an actual park experience, National Park Trust has developed a variety of family activities and distance learning opportunities available at www.kidstoparks.org. These activities can be completed at home, in a backyard or neighborhood, and help families celebrate the day safely. In addition to the online resources, National Park Trust has updated its free mobile ParkPassport App with new virtual park experiences and fun digital badges available through the Apple App Store and Google Play. 
Don't have a national park near you? No worries! Below are a few fun and low to no cost ideas for a local park experience from Jacquie Fisher shared in her Edventures with Kids blog about 17 FUN Activities to do at the Park.:

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1. Go fly a kite. Kids can explore the science of kite flying while running through large open spaces to launch the kite into the wind.
2. Explore a new playground. What’s more fun than finding a new playground? Maybe having Mom or Dad join in the play.
3. Have a picnic. Grab a blanket and lunch and head off to the park for this memory maker.
4. Hike a trail.  Be adventurous. Make sure to check the park’s trail map to choose the best one to fit your family.
5. Play a game. Take a frisbee, ball or play keep-away or tag.
6. Be a shutterbug.  Grab a camera and see what inspires you or what the kids will decide to photograph.
7. Go on a treasure hunt.  Have you ever gone geocaching? A great outdoor challenge to do together as a family.  And it’s free!
8. Take a ride.  Find paved trails to enjoy an afternoon bike ride together or enjoy a canoe or kayak ride on a pond.
9. Volunteer.  There are some great family opportunities in local, state, and national parks. See what you can find to help out.
10. Bring along a Nature Journal.  Whether a sketchbook for drawing or a homemade nature journal, a park is the perfect time to learn about nature.
11. Become a Jr. Ranger.  Most national parks and some state parks have Jr. Ranger programs.  Check with the park ranger or the park’s website to find out if a program is offered before you go.
12. Just play.  Kids will always find something to do.  Give them room and they will play.

 
For more ideas and supplemental activities visit A Day in the Park Kids Nature Activities .
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​Christina appreciates the many opportunities for learning that Extension provides.  Her favorite topic is teaching about the healthy development of young children and the importance of loving, supportive relationships in their lives.  She enjoys spending time with her family, traveling, a nice walk or hike in nature, and reading a good book.