Good Morning Watershed Explorers,
Summer vacation will look a little different this year for everyone. However, even with the thought of COVID-19 still, at the forefront, there are many activities that you can enjoy safely! Here is a shortlist of just 10 fun activities to try. If you have others that you would like to share, please email them to me at cmorissette@narrabay.com and I will post them in a future blog.
1. Roger Williams Park Zoo:
One of Rhode Island's most treasured attractions is open for business. For safety regulations and visitor information, check out rwpzoo.org
2. Norman Bird Sanctuary:
The Norman Bird Sanctuary is a fantastic place to visit for a nature walk. This quiet spot in Middletown, RI delights with beautiful views, and true to its name, many different bird species to observe. Check out the website https://www.normanbirdsanctuary.org/
3. State Parks:
Visit one of Rhode Islands' many state parks. Most are free for a hike or a walk. One of my family's favorites is the John H. Chafee Nature Preserve that I wrote about last week. Check out a list of state parks here https://riparks.com/covid19.php#health
4. Take a Virtual Class
As many of you know, Mrs. Morissette is not one to promote virtual learning. I would much rather you be outside than in front of a computer screen, however, life is a little different these days. Taking a virtual class for just an hour a week can actually be quite fun, especially seeing as though you don't have to be in front of a screen for school right now. The Blue Door Art Studio in Smithfield, RI is offering virtual art classes. Check out their website at https://bluedoorartstudio.com/virtual-classes/
5. Scooping
Scooping at a local pond can be an awesome explorer experience. There is so much life in our local freshwater and there are so many places to scoop. My family's favorite spot is Frosty Hollow Pond in West Greenwich, but there are many other sites that offer a great scooping experience. If you have a local spot that you love, please share it with me at cmorissette@narrabay.com
6. Take a Bike Ride
Whether it is around your own neighborhood, or on one of Rhode Island's many bike paths, bike riding is a great way to enjoy the fresh air and get some excellent exercise. For a list of Rhode Island's bike paths, check out http://www.dot.ri.gov/travel/bikeri/index.php
7. Garden
What a great time to start your own vegetable garden. This fun, sustainable activity, is great for all ages. Use this website for inspiration https://www.outdoor-classrooms.com/2017/04/plant-a-vegetable-garden-with-kids-5-steps/
8. Rock Creations
Take a beach walk and find some rocks to paint. Rock painting can be fun and you can add your creations to your vegetable garden or create a fairy garden. Here is a great website for ideas https://www.rockpaintingguide.com/
9. Toilet Paper Roll Creations
I don't know about your families, but my family has been going through a pretty decent amount of toilet paper since we are at home all the time now. We have been collecting our rolls and plan to create some really neat projects. Here are some of the projects we have been looking at https://www.countryliving.com/diy-crafts/g4988/easy-crafts-for-kids/
10. Read a Book
Reading is one of the best learning activities that you can do this summer. Read a book alone, to your sibling, with your parents, or grandparents. Reading can take you to places and can give you adventures you never even thought possible. Reading has a ton of benefits too, it can relieve stress, help you sleep better at night, and improve your memory. Some schools even offer an incentive for reading throughout the summer!
I hope you will try some of these great activities and maybe even send me an email about them.
Much love,
Mrs. Morissette