Kids may be more aware of environmental issues than most adults realize. Some studies have shown that children worry about the state of the environment more than their homework! Family activities are a good way to introduce children and young adults to a new subject and teach them about good earth stewardship. Check out the
Environmental Kids Club with interactive storybooks such as Recycle City, or go to
Earth911.org. But the best way is to get outside and have fun!
Hands-on experience is a great way for kids to learn something new and give back to the community. Volunteer opportunities are listed at the
Minnesota Department of Natural Resources. We found that frog counting is a favorite activity for young children, and families can adopt a bluebird house in Afton State Park. Young adults can learn stream restoration, goose banding, and even teach environmental education through the
Minnesota Conservation Corps.
Monthly activities for young kids are posted at
greenguardian.com to learn recycling habits and turn household items like paper towel tubes into toys. In May, pack a picnic with reusable plates and watch the
Solar Boat Regatta at Beach House Beach on Lake Phalen. Every Thursday from June through August at the
U of MN Landscape Arboretum (4 miles west of Chanhassen on State Hwy 5) families can drop by for free after 4:30pm and enjoy storytelling and take-home projects. Year-round family activities occur weekends 12-4pm. When you visit the State Fair, stop by the EcoExperience building to tour rain gardens and visit an eco-house.
We love the
Walker Art Center (1750 Hennepin Ave), which offers art classes, free admission for families on the first Saturday of each month, the ever popular Kids Disco Party at McGuire Theater, and Summer Music & Movies at Loring Park.