Kids GO (Get Outside)
Learn About the Environment
Nature Activity Guides
Welcome to DEC's web pages just for kids. We have some great resources you can print and take with you as you explore outside. Take a hike with a nature bingo card, record observations in your very own nature journal or bird book, learn about our state symbols and so much more. Whatever your interests, there are plenty of ways to enjoy being outside and to learn about the environment.
Search for critters in the lily pond
at Reinstein Woods Nature
Preserve and Environmental
Education Center
Environmental Education Centers
Anyone and everyone can help to protect and conserve the environment. Start by simply spending time outside in nature. Explore your yard or neighborhood, or a nearby park. DEC runs two Nature centers:
- Five Rivers Environmental Education Center in Delmar (Albany County) and
- Reinstein Woods Nature Preserve and Environmental Education Center in Depew (Erie County)
Both offer walking trails and guided programs for families to explore the outdoors together. Programs are also offered for school and youth groups.
Sportsman education classes are
offered at DEC Environmental
Education Camps
Environmental Education Camps
If you want an in-depth outdoor experience and you're between 11 and 17 years old, a week at one of DEC's four summer environmental education camps may be just right. These overnight camps are located in the Adirondacks, the Catskills, and western New York. Attending a DEC environmental education camp is a great way to learn about conservation, environmental issues and careers in conservation, and to connect with the natural world.
Youth Hunting and Trapping Opportunities
There are lots of great opportunities for young people to enjoy the beauty of nature, while out with an experienced adult during several youth hunting and trapping weekends each year. The goal of the Mentored Youth Hunter and Trapper Program is to sustain hunting and trapping participation and its associated recreational and wildlife conservation benefits, but the ultimate goal is the passing down of tradition, knowledge, and experiences from one generation to the next, and spending quality time with friends and family outdoors. Young hunters can sign up to take a free hunter safety course in a location nearby- classes fill up quickly so sign up early!
More about Kids GO (Get Outside):
- Nature Activities - A collection of outdoor activity guides on a wide range of topics for kids and families
- Junior Duck Stamp Program - This program is an art and science curriculum designed to teach youth about environmental science and habitat conservation.
- Links to Environmental Information - Listing of links to environmental information topics including kids' pages, government websites, educational lesson plans, etc.
- Symbols of New York State - The official symbols of New York State.
- Kids Only: Have Fun with Clean Air - Learn about air pollution and what you can do to prevent it.
