A part of the USDA Forest Service Children's Forest Network
Activities
Check back regularly for new activities you can do on your own or with your family
Nature Journal
Forest Bingo
Acorn Target Practice
If you have enjoyed these activities, please consider visiting the Donate tab and making a small donation to Rensselaer Youth Outdoors.
Resources
Hiking
There are lots of publicly owned lands that are open for hiking and recreation. A comprehensive list with links can be found on the Get Outside Page of the website of our partner, the Rensselaer Plateau Alliance.
Remember to maintain 6 feet of space between you and anyone outside of your family group. If a public space is overcrowded, pick a new site for your hike.
Make sure to practice regular trail safety on all hikes. Tell someone where you are going. Always check the weather before going out, and dress appropriately. Wear long pants and tuck them into socks to protect against ticks. Bring plenty of water, wear sunscreen and bugspray, and perform regular tick checks.
Some children enjoy puddle jumping on the Moose Trail at the Poestenkill Community Forest.
Websites to visit
The following websites have additional activities and resources available
Resources from our youth
Ella: All about Bees
Activities
Citizen Science
Take a look at this document on fighting Nature Deficit Disorder with some links for more information
Mental Health
Now more than ever it is important to take the time to be aware of your mental health and perform self care. Isolation and social disruption increase levels of stress, and we need to find ways to cope. Use the resources below to support your mental health during this crisis.
Active Minds: Mental Health Amid the Covid-19 Pandemic
Centers for Disease Control: Stress and Coping Guide
National Alliance on Mental Health
New York State Office of Mental Health
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs: Mental Health Page
Or enjoy a game of Wellness Bingo from the Mental Health Association of New York State
