Three days flies by when you’re a kid having fun at Lake Anna State Park!
The Junior Ranger program teaches kids about cool stuff they normally wouldn’t get to do in school, unless they went on a field trip. Junior Rangers isn’t just learning about the environment either. We integrate outdoor recreation into our programs so kids can see, and do! Besides, isn’t thatthe bestway to learn? Go ahead andspend a day fishing at the lake…we'll teach youabout water ecosystems too.
Interpretive Ranger, Matt Knight, teaches thekids how to cast, set the hook, and to be safe and responsible anglers. These kids were super excited about catching fish.Hey, it sure beats getting a gold star!
Cast, hook…bait!
Take a hike kid! Or, actually, time for a break from the water and off to dry land. A guided hike downRailroad Ford Trail becomes a lesson about land ecosystems. Collecting seeds along the way for an activity which examines methods of dispersal came later on. Kids learn about the role of birds of prey in ecosystems, as they dissect owl pellets and piece together different skeletal pieces. Did someone say biology?! Not to mention getting a chance to interact with live amphibians, like lizards, turtles and snakes. Fearful for some, till they learn and understand how snakes play a vital role in our ecosystem. Ah-ha…it all makes sense now! Isn’t nature amazing?
Interpretive Ranger, Matt Knight, shows kids creatures and critters along their hike
At the day's end, Junior Rangers are awarded during a graduation ceremony. Parents are invited to attend and watch as their children are given a patch, certificate and receive the honorary title of “Junior Ranger”. Not only do the kids love this program where they learn valuable skills and lessons, but they make their teachers proud! We think we’ve earned our A+.