Uncertain times call for unusual solutions, and this summer, Dripping Springs thinks it is got one with the launching of Coyote Kids Nature Camp – in a crate. The initiative of the Dripping Springs Parks & Community Services Department, provides a virtual path to summer entertainment.
Originally an in-person kids camp, Coyote Kids this year is transitioning to arts and crafts packaged for interactive activities.
Every week, campers will pick up their packaged “camp kit” that includes one nature-based experience for each day. On the first day of each camp, campers will meet in a Zoom Huddle, where they will connect with each other, learn some camp songs, and go through the week's activity box/bag. During the week, campers will do all their camp activities and send in pictures of them enjoying nature and the activities. Then, at the end of the week, everyone will gather again in a Friday Zoom Huddle where they’ll wrap up the week, look at the pictures, connect, talk about their experiences, and sing camp songs.
“This is a fun, safe and unique way for kids to connect with other kids and do fun activities throughout the week,” Camp Director Maggie Martin said. “We hope to inspire young nature enthusiasts to get outdoors and get dirty, while also still giving them a chance to connect with other kids in a fun and unique way during the summer.”
Campers will learn about nature, plants and Texas wildlife while also receiving fun camp tips.
“We're keeping the camper-to-counselor ratios small because, of course, parents are the counselors this summer,” Martin said. “Our goal with these camps is to create amazing and meaningful experiences that the parents can have with their kids and experiences the kids can have virtually, too, with other kids. And of course, we throw in some make-at-home s’mores.”
There will be five Coyote Kids Nature Camps running June 1 through July 31. Each weekly camp costs $25 for residents and $30 for non-residents. Parents can learn more about Coyote Kids Camp by going to http://www.cityofdrippingsprings.com/page/parks_CoyoteKids or going to the Parks and Community Services section of cityofdrippingsprings.com. Parents can also email the camp director at the Parks and Community Services Department at mmartin@cityofdrippingsprings.com for more information and registration.
