Ballard Park Hosts Children's Nature Workshops Through August

NEWPORT, RI—If your child hasn't had enough good outdoor physical activity so far this summer, here comes Friends of Ballard Park to the rescue.

Through August, they're hosting weekly nature workshops for children (ideally 6- to 12-year-olds) with hands-on activities focusing on the natural elements found in Ballard Park. Each week has its own nature-oriented theme with hikes, insect searches, rock identification, games and more.

Cost is $5 per child. Adults are free and encouraged to attend. Meet at the Hazard Road entrance (use 1 Oceans Heights Road if you need GPS directions). Rain date is the following Monday. Pre-registration is recommended. Call 401.619.3377 or e-mail education@ballardpark.org to register or for more information.

Dates and topics include:

Children’s Workshop: Colors and Patterns in Nature
Aug. 4
1 to 2:30 p.m.

How many different shades of green can we find in a forest? What do pinecones, seashells and flower petals have in common? Discover the colors and number patterns found everywhere in nature and create nature patterns of your own to take home!

Children’s Workshop: Treasure Hunting on the Trails
Aug. 11
1 to 2:30 p.m.
Take to the trails in search of adventure! Participants will learn basic navigational skills using a compass and a trail map. Using these skills, teams will work together to find and solve the clues hidden around Ballard Park!

Name That Nest!
Aug. 18
1 to 2:30 p.m.
Nests aren’t just for birds as children will learn as they hike the park examining trees to determine the birds and animals that live in them. After learning about the special techniques our animals, children will have the opportunity to build their own!