Families invited to 'Explorer Days' at Ringwood's Glacial Park

McHenry County Conservation District invites families to come play in Glacial Park at “Explorer Days: Winter Wonders” from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 4, at Lost Valley Visitor Center in Glacial Park, Route 31 and Harts Road in Ringwood.

Winter can be unpredictable but it can also be exciting. Come for 30 minutes or stay for three hours as we help you and your child experience the power of nature exploration and play. Activities are appropriate for 3- to 10-year-olds, but all ages are welcome to attend. Children will explore different stations to create outdoor nature art, follow animal tracks, and make their own bird feeder. Or, take the family on an animal homes scavenger hunt. Instructions will be provided. Refreshments will be available but we encourage you to bring a picnic lunch to enjoy in our beautiful valley overlook room.

This event is part of the Leave No Child Inside, Chicago Wilderness initiative and will go on snow or shine unless there is a weather or travel advisory in place. Dress for the weather and “cool” outdoor fun. No registration is required. Come find out more about how to explore.

Unstructured outdoor play and exploration have been shown to contribute both to children's physical development and to their psychological well-being. Despite all the benefits, not all adults feel comfortable venturing into the world of nature play and exploration. This event is designed to increase the confidence of those who haven't tried being a nature guide or co-discoverer yet and to support those already out there exploring alongside their children.