Racine Zoo Launches Free Nature Play Programs

MOUNT PLEASANT-STURTEVANT, WI - From Racine Zoo: Looking for a chance to get outside with your family this spring and summer? Racine Nature Club will be launching two programs per month this spring and summer free to your family. From canoeing and kayaking to beach exploration and guided nature hikes, each program is led by Racine Zoo staff and local experts to teach families how to get outside and have fun!

Racine Nature Club, sponsored by the Racine Zoo, Disney’s Conservation Fund, and the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, is a partnership between seven major conservation organizations in the Racine area: The Racine Zoo, EcoJustice Center, Caledonia Conservancy, Root River Environmental Education Center, Hawthorne Hollow, River Bend Nature Center, and Hoy Audubon Society. “We have never seen collaboration on this scale between this many of the key players in environmental education in Racine,” said Aszya Summers, Conservation Education Manager at the Racine Zoo and coordinator of the new Racine Nature Club. “Every partner in this endeavor is enthusiastic about this new partnership and is committed to bridging the gap between Racine families and nature. We have looked into potential barriers to getting outside, and cost was identified as a major one. Each partner is contributing their staff and experience, free of cost, because we all realize how valuable it is to get kids and their parents outside.”

According to the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, today’s youth, on average, spend fewer than 10 minutes in unstructured outdoor play, but spend more than 50 hours plugged into cell phones, tablets, televisions, computers, and other digital media. More and more, studies are showing the importance of spending time outside. This time outside not only improves our connection to the world around us, but also improves mental and emotional health.

Additionally, time spent outdoors as a family improves family bonds and relationships. “We are hoping to create lifelong memories for Racine families,” says Summers. “We’ll bring the experts. We’ll bring toys. Just come with an open mind, dress for the weather, and be ready to get messy, and we will be sure you and your family have a wonderful time.”

A full list of locations and dates can be found on the Racine Zoo’s website
https://www.racinezoo.org/content/racine-nature-club-0

About the Racine Zoo

Nestled along the sandy shores of Lake Michigan, the Racine Zoo is open year round. Current hours are 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Members and children two and under: FREE, children two to 15: $3, seniors: $3.50, and adults: $4. For more information on the Racine Zoo, its programs and events, visit www.racinezoo.org, call 262.636.9189 and find us on Facebook and Twitter.

Image courtesy of Racine Zoo, Racine Nature Club