Family Walks
Walking Route Ideas:
The Tualatin Hills Park and Recreation District (THPRD) provides a Nature and Trails Map which includes over 70 miles of urban trails located in the Beaverton area.
Things to Do While Walking:
Nature and Science Activities:
»Birding - Use Birds I May See in My Yard to tally how many birds you find on your walk. Learn about these 50 Bird Species and the Sounds They Make. Try out the Bird Identification App to learn about the birds you see while walking.
» Trees – Learn about the parts of a tree and why they are important in this fun tree video..
Get more advanced learning from this VIDEO with quiz by Learn360.
Complete the Explore the Forest Student Workbook to learn more about the forest community and why it is important. Try out the Tree Identification App to learn about the different trees you see while walking.
Games/Activities
Communities throughout our country have created fun activities for families to participate in while out walking in their neighborhoods.
- Bear Hunts (looking for stuffed bears people place in their windows)
- Hiding (and finding) painted rocks and sidewalk chalk obstacle courses are a few that have popped up in our Beaverton communities.
- Print this Bingo card (or create one of your own) and search for the items shown. Try for four in a row or blackout!
- This printable Scavenger Hunt has a picture checklist for emerging readers and a printed checklist for advanced readers.
Mindful Walking
Having a mindfulness practice is a proven strategy for reducing stress and helping children learn to self-regulate their behavior. It can be applied in a lot of different ways, including when you’re out taking walks. One of the best ways to practice mindfulness is by getting outside and getting in touch with nature. To learn more try this Mindful Walking Resource Guide.
Pedestrian Safety Instruction:
A family walk is a great time to teach your children pedestrian safety. Here is a fun video and resources to help.
Pedestrian Safer Journey Videos
Teaching Children to Walk Safely
Five-part “Let’s Go Walking” Video Series
Each video, by the North Carolina Department of Transportation, has related lesson plans for grades K-1, 2-3, and 4-5.
» Crossing Intersections Safely