Hands-On Learning with Nature
"The mind cannot forget what the hands have learned." (Jon Zahourek). This quote has become a favorite of mine and it applies well to enjoying nature. Truly, the best and most fun way to learn is to go and experience it first-hand. Our many local nature centers supply an endless array of classes, workshops and events that get families literally in touch with nature.
Powell Gardens in Kingsville, MO, is a treat to visit and view amazing gardens, water features and their lake trail. They also offer programs for kids, adults and families. When I was young, we attended many of their monthly Kids Club programs. It was there I first looked through a telescope. Dad still says the best pizza he ever ate came from our herb class. Kids Club programs are for ages 6-12 and can be found at www.powellgardens.org/Kids_Club.
The Missouri Department of Conservation always has great programming at a number of locations throughout the city, for little to no cost. Their Discover Nature classes are noteworthy, as they build confidence in outdoor skills and knowledge. The fishing program is exceptional. A series of four classes walks the beginner through equipment, baiting, casting, basic fish identification and regulations. Attendees learn the how-to's and apply what they have learned when fishing. All equipment and bait is provided. Burr Oak Woods Nature Center in Blue Springs and James A. Reed Wildlife Area in Independence offer these fishing courses. More programs and classes are offered beyond the Discover Nature series for all ages, homeschoolers and Scouts. A complete listing is at mdc.mo.gov/regions/kansas-city/nature-you-newsletter. The newsletter is published bimonthly.
There is no shortage of hands-on learning opportunities on the Kansas side of the city. Johnson County Parks and Recreation offers a wide range of classes at Ernie Miller Nature Center and Timber Ridge Adventure Center. The complete list can be found at jcprd.com/activities/ and includes summer camp opportunities. Ernie Miller has regular classes for children and homeschoolers. If you have been curious about geocaching, which is basically a scavenger hunt using GPS, Johnson County Parks and Recreation is offering two family events this summer at Shawnee Mission Park. Families will be able to borrow a GPS unit and find the caches around the park. To see what Timber Ridge offers, attend their open house April 30 that will feature several outdoor activities including canoeing, kayaking, hiking and archery.
Several smaller nature centers and outdoor areas regularly offer classes too. A great way to introduce your family to them all is to grab a Passport to Adventure booklet at any participating site—including those listed here. The passport program runs from April through October and includes parks, historic and cultural sites in Kansas and Missouri. The kickoff event this year is April 2 at the Bass Pro Shop in Independence. If you miss the kickoff, you also can visit kcpassport.com to find a listing of all sites.
Heather Shields is a Kansas City native, nature buff and science teacher.