Doctors and researchers have long studied the impact of spending time in nature, and found that the rewards of even just a few moments outdoors each day can lead to happier, healthier and more productive lives, according to NatureBridge.com. Maury County Parks and Recreation provides a great program to introduce kids to the great outdoors called Maury County Junior Naturalist.
“A naturalist is any person who studies the natural world,” says Naples Botanical Garden’s website. Naturalists make observations of the relationships between organisms and their environments, as well as how those relationships change over time.” One of the most well-known naturalists is Charles Darwin.
“Charles Robert Darwin (1809-1882) transformed the way we understand the natural world with ideas that, in his day, were nothing short of revolutionary,” explains the Natural History Museum website. “He and his fellow pioneers in the field of biology gave us insight into the fantastic diversity of life on Earth and its origins, including our own as a species.”
The initiative was designed to foster environmental education and exploration for children in kindergarten through sixth grade. The program integrates history, culture, science, technology, engineering, arts, math, and outdoor experiences. It provides kids with an immersive learning experience to help them become young nature enthusiasts.
To get a child signed up for the program, visit the Maury County Parks and Recreation Department at 1018 Maury County Park Drive in Columbia, Tennessee between 8:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday, to pick up a Maury County Junior Naturalist workbook.
The workbook can be completed at the child’s pace. It provides a range of engaging educational activities that will ignite their curiosity and deepen their connections to the natural world. It will open their eyes to the adventures to be found by engaging with nature.
“Join us on this incredible journey as we empower the next generation to become stewards of the environment,” says the Parks and Recreation Department website. “Together, let’s nurture a love for nature and inspire a brighter, greener future for Maury County and beyond!”
Once the workbook has been completed, the booklet needs to be brought back to the Maury County Parks and Recreation Department. Once turned in, the participating child will be asked to recite the Junior Naturalist pledge.
“We’ll celebrate their accomplishment by awarding them with an official Maury County Junior Naturalist badge,” explains the Parks and Recreation department website, “a symbol of their commitment to preserving and appreciating our planet and its inhabitants.”
If you have any questions or need further information, please don’t hesitate to contact the Maury County Parks and Recreation Department at [email protected] or call 931-375-6103.
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