This winter, I encourage you to get outside and be apart of the magic that happens when your child has a chance to connect directly with nature by simply being in nature. Children cannot connect to a video game, cell phone or app in the way they do when a ladybug crawls on them, or witnesses a whale breach the water, or see a line of pelicans fly by. Take advantage of the wide variety of opportunities this month to teach, volunteer, and learn about our beautiful spot in the world.

• Muir Woods Earth Day
• Birds & Herring Festival, Richardson Bay Audubon Center & Sanctuary.
• Journey of the Whales, 1:30pm, every Saturday & Sunday thru April, Point Reyes
• Experience Elephant Seals, 11am-4:30pm, every Saturday & Sunday thru April, Point Reyes
• On Shaky Ground, 10:30am, every Saturday, Earthquake Trail, Bear Valley Visitor Center, Point Reyes
• Fungus Fair, 10am-4pm, Bear Valley Visitor Center, Point Reyes.
• Junior Rangers: People and Natural Habitats, San Geronimo
• Nature for Kids: Deer Island, Novato
• Ring Mountain Grassland Restoration Project, Tiburon
• Creekside Restoration, Greenbrae

There are many other opportunities to connect to nature in a way that will forever impact developing minds at all ages. Park rangers, scientists, naturalists and others passionate in their respective fields are available to answer any questions.

Children are natural nature nurturers and Marin provides many resources to help foster the next generation of environmental leaders. You can do it anytime and it is an AWESOME way to start the new year.