Resources

START WITH BSKO
It's not complicated to get outside with your kids. But BSKO does offer parents some important help. First, we offer a regular
date, time and place to get outside. Second, we find it's fun to hike with other kids and parents. Finally, we offer some structure
and guidelines on safety and planning to reduce worries. Ultimately each parent needs to decide how best to get their children
into nature safely. But starting with BSKO reduces stress and let's you focus on enjoyment once you get to the woods. Some
of our resources are:
1. Hiking with Kids
2. Winter Clothing Recommendations
3. Hiking/Camping checklist
4. Our favorite spots list some local hikes we like
5. Learn about Poison Ivy and Ticks
CDC on Lyme Poison Ivy.org
Our thoughts on avoiding poison ivy and ticks

BUILD "NATURE TIME" INTO YOUR WEEK
How much "nature time" do our kids get? We manage to find time for soccer, TV, karate, music and swimming. But where
does the outdoors fit into our priorities? Do our schedule reflect nature as a priority? The National Wildlife Federation suggests
a "Green Hour" every day with unstructured outdoor play for kids. Consider a walk after dinner in a nearby park as an evening
ritual. Or join us on a weekly basis for a great hike. Try it for a month and notice how your kids respond!

TAKE ADVANTAGE OF OUR RICH NATURE RESOURCES
BSKO focuses on getting kids directly in contact with nature through short, local hikes. But New England has a wide array of
opportunities to get outdoors. Some of our favorites are:
Mass Audubon Society - a wide range of destinations, often with great onsite nature programs. Check out their summer camps
and afternoon programs, too.
Appalachian Mountain Club - offers more challenging trips oriented toward teen plus children. Their huts and lodges offer great
family programs. They also offer wonderful training programs. Lonesome Lake Hut is our favorite!
New England Wildflower Society - The Garden in the Woods is a great spot for kids. The Society offers classes and training
events, too.
Sudbury Valley Land Trust - has many sites along the Sudbury and Assabet rivers from Westbury to Lowell.
Trustees of the Reservations - has great natural sites around around Massachusetts for a small annual membership fee.
State Parks - Massachusetts has great State Parks from Cape Cod to Mt. Greylock.
Rhode Island Familes in Nature - has been an inspiration to BSKO. They offer great family hikes, too. Visit their website for
more details.

Other favorites? Send us your suggestions at our email address info.bsko@google.com.