Urbana Park District encourages families to take part in Take a Child Outside Week, from September 18 – 27, 2020. The Park District will be offering some socially distant activities during the week.

“We are encouraging people to get outside with their families as much as possible. You could visit a new park or preserve that you've never been to before, or you could visit one of your favorite outdoor places,” said Savannah Donovan, Environmental Public Program Coordinator.

Donovan added, “The Friendship Grove Nature Playscape is a great place for kids to explore, imagine, and play. The Urbana Park District also has four Natural Areas that showcase some of Illinois' most beautiful native habitats. Wherever you go, we would love for you to share what you discover using #Urbanaparks on social media.”

The park district has several socially-distant activities for families to try.

• Free Outdoor Movie Night is on Friday, Sept 25 from 6:45-9pm. (In the event of bad weather, we will reschedule to Saturday, Sept. 26.) We will be screening The Wizard of Oz in the open field at the Friendship Grove Nature Playscape next to the Anita Purves Nature Center. You can bring snacks or a picnic dinner, and everyone should bring blankets or lawn chairs to sit on. Space is limited to household groups of 1-6 people, and group spaces will be 10 feet apart. Register your household by calling (217) 384-4062. 
• On Wednesday, September 23 from 5:30-6:30pm, you can enjoy a virtual guided hike through Busey Woods by finding the Anita Purves Nature Center on Facebook where the live video will air.
• During the week of September 21-25, the nature center is giving away free activity kits appropriate for kids age 5-12 and their families--while supplies last! Call (217) 384-4062 starting on Monday, September 14 to reserve a kit and make arrangements for pickup or delivery. (Delivery for Urbana residents only.) You can choose from the following kits (one per child, please): Build a Tarp Shelter, Pressed Flower/Leaf Art, Decorate and Fly Kites (2/kit), and Create a Miniature Fairy/Gnome Garden.

During this pandemic year, Donovan thinks getting outside is more important than ever. “The pandemic has been rough on everyone. We are feeling more stress and anxiety, and many of us are feeling cooped-up and bored. Venturing outside for a walk, to play, or even just to sit and relax can really offer relief,” she commented.