Getting back to basics

Tadpoles, catkins, gunny sack races and other activities
keep youngsters attuned to nature.

Volunteers help Junior Naturalists bait their hooks during an acquatic program at Rock Springs Center in Decatur. (Photo by Jeff Tish.)

By Joyce Larnm

The children ran across the grassy area trying to see who could be first to the large maple tree. Reaching the tree, several fell on the ground, giggling breathlessly, and lay on their backs looking up at the sky.

The children were one of several groups who visit Rock Spring Center for Environmental Discovery west of Decatur. Many of the visitors enjoy the trails on their own while others participate in public programs and activities. However, all visitors come because the programs offer a recreational experience different from what they can get in a more equipment-oriented setting.

During a recent program, one parent remarked, "It is good to have a place that is not filled with flashing lights, bells and music."

Special focus

A variety of walks, slide programs and classes are offered at Bock Springs Center year-round for all ages. However, one of the most popular is the Junior Naturalist Program for youngsters ages eight through 12.

The Macon County Conservation District sponsors this environmental program for eight weeks each summer to help participants become more aware of, and better informed about, plants, rocks, animals and other natural resources. Participants come weekly to attend half-day environmental and recreational sessions.

Illinois Parks and Recreation 24 July/August 1986

Several recreational events are planned during each session. These can include following a trail to rendezvous with another group or having a fun race to a maple tree. The youngsters orient their minds and bodies to the outdoors while participating in these activities. They see catkins on cotton-wood trees and smell the blossoms of a milkweed instead of the more familiar rose and marigolds.

Unlike urban sidewalks, the trails reveal the imprint of deer hooves and raccoon paws. The children even learn to recognize a print of their own Nike or Addidas, revealing that they, too, leave a personalized track in the woods.

Planned games

Sometimes the recreational activities are based on games of the past, such as gunny sack races. Others are quiet and relaxing. For example, one challenges participants to listen for various natural sounds.

With the help of volunteers and staff, the junior naturalists also explore rocks, go fishing and look for tadpoles. However, there is also time for swings, softball and other sports.

In many instances, there is neither a specific winner of the games nor are any prizes awarded. The goal is to have a good time and learn about nature with very little equipment or money.

Program expansion

Two years ago the Junior Naturalist Program had 80 participants. Last year there were 120. Because of the program's increasing popularity, two groups will meet this summer at Rock Springs Center. Three new groups will be formed at Griswold Conservation Park, Blue Mound; Fort Daniel Conservation Park, Mt. Zion, and Friends Creek Regional Park, Argenta.

Additional information is available from the Macon County Conservation District, 1495 Brozio Lane, Decatur, IL 62521. Phone (217) 423-7708.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Joyce Lamm is an interpretive naturalist for the Macon County Conservation District.

Illinois Parks and Recreation 26 July/August 1986