Calling all adventurous fourth graders (and their families)! Get ready to explore America’s natural wonders and historic sites for FREE with the Every Kid Outdoors program. The Every Kid Outdoors program is a fantastic initiative designed to connect fourth graders and their families with the great outdoors, all for free! This awesome initiative by the U.S. Department of the Interior grants fourth graders a whole year of free entrance to hundreds of national parks, wildlife refuges, forests, and more!
What is the Every Kid Outdoors Program?
The Every Kid Outdoors program, launched in 2015, aims to inspire a love for nature in young people by providing free access to national parks, wildlife refuges, and other federal lands and waters. Specifically, the program offers a free annual pass to all U.S. fourth graders, giving them and their families the chance to explore and enjoy the natural beauty of our country’s public lands.
Why Fourth Graders?
Research shows that children at the age of ten (typically fourth grade) are at a perfect developmental stage to form lasting connections with nature. They are old enough to understand and appreciate the environment but young enough to be deeply influenced by these experiences. The program not only encourages physical activity but also fosters a sense of responsibility towards conservation and stewardship.
Here’s how it works:
Who’s eligible:
Any student in the United States who is in fourth grade, including homeschooled and free-choice learners. Fourth graders can visit the Every Kid Outdoors website to complete a short, fun activity. Upon completion, they receive a printable voucher for a free annual pass.
Getting your pass:
Head to the Every Kid Outdoors website and print a voucher for your pass. It’s that easy! Use the pass to visit over 2,000 federal sites, including national parks, forests, wildlife refuges, and more. Many of these sites also offer educational programs, guided tours, and kid-friendly activities.
Using your pass:
When you enter a federal recreation site that charges entrance fees, show your pass to the park ranger. The pass is valid for free entry for the entire fourth-grade year (September 1st through August 31st).
Bonus! Your pass isn’t just for you. It covers:
- Up to three accompanying adults (perfect for exploring with parents, grandparents, or siblings!)
- All children under 16 in your group
Imagine the possibilities! Hike through towering redwoods in California, kayak through the Everglades in Florida, or climb sand dunes in Indiana. Every Kid Outdoors opens the door to countless outdoor adventures.
Embark on a Year of Exploration:
The Every Kid Outdoors program isn’t just about free entry; it’s about igniting a love for the outdoors and fostering a connection with America’s incredible landscapes and history. Here are some ideas to make the most of your pass and embark on a year of exploration.
Start Local:
Begin with nearby parks and federal lands to ease into the experience. This can also help you plan for longer trips.
Plan a National Park Road Trip:
Use the Every Kid Outdoors website to search for parks by state or region. Consider the interests of your family and choose destinations that offer activities everyone will enjoy – from hiking and camping to ranger-led tours and historical landmarks.
Become a Junior Ranger:
Many national parks offer Junior Ranger programs. These programs provide activity booklets that guide kids through the park, teaching them about the park’s plants, animals, geology, and history. Completing the program often comes with a badge or certificate, making it a fun and educational way to explore.
Learn Through Citizen Science:
Some parks offer citizen science programs where visitors can contribute to ongoing research projects. This could involve counting birds, monitoring water quality, or collecting plant specimens. It’s a fantastic way to give back to the park while learning valuable scientific skills.
Make Memories that Last a Lifetime:
The Every Kid Outdoors program is a fantastic opportunity to create lasting memories with your family. Here are some tips to ensure your adventures are enjoyable and safe:
- Gear up for Adventure: Depending on the location, pack essentials like sunscreen, bug spray, sturdy shoes, and weather-appropriate clothing. Consider bringing a backpack, snacks, plenty of water, and a first-aid kit.
- Leave No Trace: Always be respectful of the environment by packing out all trash and following park rules. Leave the natural world as beautiful as you found it.
- Document your adventures: Take pictures, write in a journal, or collect leaves and rocks (with permission) to remember your amazing experiences.
The Every Kid Outdoors program is a gateway to unforgettable adventures, fostering a love of nature and appreciation for our country’s incredible public lands. So, grab your pass, pack your bags, and get ready for an unforgettable year of exploration!
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