Theodore Roosevelt once said, “It is an incalculable added pleasure to any one’s sum of happiness if he or she grows to know, even slightly and imperfectly, how to read and enjoy the wonder-book of nature.” Experiencing nature is one of the most riveting and exciting things anyone can take part in. It harnesses creativity, instructs about the circle of life, constructs life skills and it is also known to be beneficial to one’s health. Unfortunately nowadays, children are no longer living their childhood immersed in nature but rather immersed in a screen in front of them.
So as a way to commemorate our 26th president’s famous love of nature, the Environmental Nature Center in Newport Beach is holding its annual President’s Week Camp, running from February 15-18, for children from K-6th grade.
Each day, campers will be divided into small groups depending on their age and be rotated between three Camp Teachers, where they will participate in exciting, age appropriate hands-on activities. The campers will travel back in time and go on a “Native American Adventure” to learn about the tools, trade, and customs of the native people of California. They’ll make string out of plants, learn to weave, listen to stories and perform music using authentic Native American instruments.
“The campers will sing camp songs, use tools that the Native Americans used, and create things,” says Sarah, who has been a Camp Teacher for the past five years.
During “Nature Play” campers will be given the freedom to explore, use their imagination and make up their own definition of fun. Full day campers will participate in “Nature Crafting” and make stick frames and stick art, and then photograph their creations. Be advised, they will get messy making air-dry clay bowls and pots. The campers will finish off the week by building tents with sheets ant tarps.
“The best part about [President’s Week Camp] is that they get to be outside all day”, adds Sarah. “There’s so much left to the imagination when you’re outside and they get to be out in the shade of trees all day.” – Alejandro Reynoso, ENC Communications Intern
For additional information please visit: https://encenter.org/camps/presidents/