Summer is in full swing here at The Parklands. And that means one thing in the education department—Summer Camp! Now at our halfway point of summer camp season, it is a good time to reflect on the fun that has been enjoyed by campers and counselors alike. Children in grades Kindergarten through sixth have been tromping, paddling, and exploring the woods, meadows, and streams of The Parklands since early June. They have seen Northern water snakes, crawfish, Fowlers Toads, praying mantis’, deer, squirrels and everything in between. Along the way, students have learned about the roles these species play in the larger ecosystem of The Parklands of Floyds Fork bringing into focus the local landscape around them.

Observing our campers and seeing their fearlessness, curiosity, and excitement while they explore Floyds Fork or track a deer along the Sycamore Trail is inspiring and reminds me and my staff of the critical role outdoor exploration and nature play in human development.

It’s not too late to get your child or grandchild involved in Parklands Summer Science Camps! Check out the link below to view a list of the remaining camp topics and to sign up! Summer is flying by, but that means we’re having fun!

http://www.theparklands.org/Things-To-Do/Science-Camps

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About the Author

As Director of Education, Curtis Carman oversees The Parklands Outdoor Classroom, promoting STEAM-based education through engaging, hands-on learning both outdoors and inside the classroom. Each year, his team of Education Specialists, Interpretive Rangers and Camp Counselors guide nearly 20,000 participants of all ages through school field trips, camps, Parklands Explorer, Junior Explorer and Wednesday Wonders. Prior to his promotion to Education Director in May of 2018, Curtis first joined The Parklands team as an Interpretive Ranger and led the department as Education Coordinator for three years. A native of Louisville and a graduate of Ballard High School, Curtis returned to his hometown after having worked as an environmental educator in Maine and Colorado at Acadia and Rocky Mountain National Parks. Curtis also served as Membership Manager at the Rocky Mountain Conservancy. Curtis enjoys hiking, biking, camping and kayaking.