Photo courtesy of the MMLT
Families are being invited to take a step into the outdoors at the 12th annual Festival of the Wild Child.
The Mississippi Madawaska Land Trust is hosting the free family event August 22 at the High Lonesome Nature Reserve in Pakenham.
About 150 people and 70 volunteers are expected to take part in a day of hands-on activities designed to help children discover and appreciate the natural world. Co-lead for the Festival, Susan Howe tells us what it’s all about.
Activities include exploring pond life, identifying pollinators, tracking wildlife clues and learning about trees and plants. Returning favourites include Pond Life, Pollinator Path and Who Pooped?
Families can also explore a fairy trail, try nature journaling, make leaf and bark rubbings, test their navigation skills and learn about scientific research taking place at the reserve.
A new feature this year is First Nations Connections to Nature. The activity will be led by Roses Moses, an Ojibwe educator from Henvey Inlet, and Marcia Chum, a Cree educator from Constance Lake.
The program will explore traditional connections to the land, including the use of natural materials for clothing, art, medicine and music. Participants can also make a dream catcher and experience drum song teachings.
Howe says there are plenty of reasons to become a wild child.
The Festival of the Wild Child runs from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at 867 Carbine Road. Admission is free for children under 16 and $10 for adults. Registration and more information are available at mmlt.ca/events. Listen to our complete conversation with Howe below.
Story by Brian Turner
