City of Albuquerque Open Space is Going Virtual with Family Nature Clubs
While families across Albuquerque are doing their part to stay home and save lives during the COVID-19 public health emergency, the City of Albuquerque’s Open Space Division is virtually connecting people to nature. Staff from the Open Space Visitor Center will be holding Family Nature Club events online via Zoom starting this Sunday at 10:30 a.m.
“While we can’t gather all of our kids together at the Visitor Center right now, the Open Space Division wanted to find a way to bring nature to you,” stated Open Space Superintendent Colleen Langan-McRoberts. “Holding virtual Family Nature Club events give families even more of an opportunity to explore the natural areas right in their own backyards and around their homes. This should be a fun and educational way to hopefully stimulate kids’ minds during this challenging time.”
The virtual Family Nature Club for Littles is aimed at helping kids ages 3-7 and their parents discover fun and engaging ways to get out and explore the natural world right in their own backyard. Presenters will weave in song, story, movement, and themed activities for kids to enjoy with their family right at home. In this virtual 45-minute session, kids will be encouraged to play and interact with their immediate outdoor environment, share their observations and experiences with other kids, and discover the magic of nature right outside their window. Participants should join with paper, a pen or pencil, and an adventurous attitude.
Registration is completed online through Zoom; no account creation is required. Register with your email address to receive an invitation to the meet-up. Participants will be able access the virtual classroom starting at 10:15 a.m., and the fun begins at 10:30 a.m. The first session is this Sunday, April 19, and future sessions are currently scheduled weekly through Sunday, May 10. More dates may be added later depending on any future extensions of the public health orders.
The City launched the Family Nature Clubs program last spring to inspire more Albuquerque families to get out into nature. The Family Nature Clubs are an exciting model of engagement that encourages families to foster exposure to nature and outdoor play that research shows makes for a happier and healthier family. Generally, families are invited to the Open Space Visitor Center (and now virtually) for family-oriented activities and a presentation to learn more about the program and future Family Nature Club events for families to attend. Family Nature Club events are free to anyone who would like to participate!