Back to Nature Trail blazing. Head to a local, state or national park and make a day of nature hiking. Before you go, make a list of things for your family to find and identify, such as a black oak tree, woodpecker holes, a Gardner snake or a raccoon paw print. Carry a backpack with binoculars, sunscreen, visors or sunglasses and plenty of water and snacks. Don’t forget your hiking shoes. Z is for zoo….
Camp Guide
amp is a special time for children and youth. Through a positive camp experience campers develop self-esteem, ward off summer learning loss, and develop a sense of independence. For the families at home, communicating with their campers is a fun and exciting way to share in the camp experience. The American Camp Association® & Family Times Magazine suggest the following do’s and don’ts for families to keep in touch with their happy camper: DO give…
Camp is an important part of childhood, and has helped generations of children develop the life skills needed to become successful adults. Families considering a camp experience may be concerned about the cost of this life changing opportunity. It’s important for these families to know that, even in today’s economic climate, camp is affordable. Yes, affordable. There is a camp for every child, and just about every budget. Camp fees range from less than $100…
By Eve Eifler We are constantly barraged with information about camps – from magazines and emails, to headline news and parents talking on the sidelines at little league. Sometimes it’s hard to separate fact from fiction. You will want to know what’s true and what’s not as you answer the all-important question, “What will I do with my kids next summer?” To help guide you, I’ve compiled a list of myths vs. facts about camps….
By Martha Wegner Imagine my surprise when my little 7-year-old girl announced, “I’m going to camp this summer!” When I assured her that I had already registered her for her favorite day camp, she was quick to correct me, “No, Mom, I’m going to overnight camp. I’m ready.” Today this sweet little girl with the blonde ringlets and 2 missing front teeth has blossomed into an independent 12 year old, ready to start her 5th…
By Julie Pfitzinger One of the best ways for teenagers to develop leadership skills over the summer is also likely one of the most fun. Summer camps throughout Minnesota offer outstanding opportunities for teens 14 and older to volunteer as Leaders in Training (LITs). For many, this initial leadership experience may eventually lead to a role as a Counselor in Training (CIT), where summer camp can become a summer job throughout their college years and…
Littlest Ones
By Natalie Marroll As soon as their babies start babbling, most moms spend their days repeating one sound: “ma.” But not you, earth mother. You’ve got your little Zen dumpling practicing “om.” Yoga Stretches are great for young muscles, they promote flexibility, lower stress and refocus over-stimulated young-ones. Below are…
By Shirley Rider Holiday season for my family usually means reasonably long car rides to visit relatives. Coupled with a toddler and this car ride could be filled with more downs than ups – try these young child games on the go for your next road trip and keep your…
By Jessica G Fisher After a wild 10-mile ride, while I panted and moaned, my husband pulled up to the Emergency Room with a police car flourish, parking crooked in front of the entrance. He ran to get a nurse, “My wife’s going to have a baby any minute.” The…
By Maura Keller Our children are your most precious gift, and if you could, you’d probably never let them out of your sight. But sometimes, in this day of single parenthood and two-income households, you have to let them go and let others take care of them. That’s why finding…
