Outdoor programs for kids abound at Jennings, Moraine

Staff report

Slippery Rock, Pa.

Jennings Environmental Education Center, 2951 Prospect Road, again will host a series of children’s programs this summer.

The hands-on learning experiences will introduce children to fun and healthy outdoor activities and instill an appreciation for the natural world. All children will receive a certificate and other materials upon completion of the series.

Registration begins May 7 and can be made by contacting Jennings at 724-794-6011.

Three age-specific programs will be offered: Hide-N-Seekers, age 4 through 5, 10:30 a.m. to noon or 1:30 to 3 p.m. Tuesdays June 19 through July 3, plus a bonus evening July 13. Cost is $2 per child per program. The Theme is “Speak for the Bugs: Insect Investigations.”

Outdoor Explorers for chilren 6 through 8 will meet 10 a.m to noon or 1 to 3 p.m. Thursdays from June 21 through July 5 with a bonus evening July 13. Cost is $5 per child per program. Their theme is “Speak for the Birds: Avian Investigations.”

Penn’s Adventurers for kids 9 to 12 will meet from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Wednesdays from July 25 through Aug. 8. Cost is $10 per child per program. Their theme is “Speak for the Trees: Forest Investigations.”

Families also are encouraged to register for concurrent sessions at Moraine State Park. Moraine will host similar summer programs for 4- through 5-year-olds on Thursdays from 10:30 a.m. to noon, and 6- through 8-year-olds on Tuesdays from 10 a.m. to noon, allowing families to register for both. Registration for Moraine’s programs begins on May 9, and can be made at 724-368-3612.

If you need an accommodation to participate in park activities due to a disability, contact the Pennsylvania Bureau of State Parks: 888-PA-PARKS (voice), 717-558-2710 (local or international voice), 711 (AT&T Relay Services).