The Riverbank Discovery Centre provided hands-on learning to help kids discover the dynamics of different eco-systems this summer through their kids' program, Swamp Camp!
From creepy crawlies to critters that love river life along the Assiniboine, to the plants n' birds n' bugs that we all love, kids got up-close to learn more!
"Swamp camp is an environment-themed program where we introduce kids, aged 5 to 9 about environmental topics," explains Rochelle Johnson-Boswell, Programming & Community Relations Coordinator at Brandon's Discovery Centre. "So, each day we have a specific theme that we discuss, and the kids get the opportunity to explore the grounds of the Riverbank and actually be back in nature."
Kids learn about water's properties, pollution and protection on Wacky Wetlands day. In Birding 101, kids learn about birds that live in our area of the province; what they eat, where they nest and how they fly. Kids learn more about frogs, snakes, lizards on Reptiles and Amphibians day, and let's not forget Manitoba's largest rodent with the webbed feet, big teeth and the flat tail and how they can survive our Manitoba winters in the Beaver Tales program. Instruction in plants, honeybees and the wetland ecosystem round out the week with water exploration and games.
Being located right on the Assiniboine riverbank, tutorials use the wetlands as a base for many of the themes. "We see the importance of wetlands, and how wetlands benefit the environment, and what we can do to protect the wetlands," shares Johnson-Boswell.
"So, we have five topics that we discuss throughout the summer and kids have the opportunity to explore all of these avenues, and learn about all the animals, the different species, and all the wildlife that goes along with it," she explains. "These topics are really engaging for kids, and also they get the opportunity to explore the grounds. They'll go out and see the snakes in the garden, and the different species of plants that are here, and learn how they benefit all of us."
The Riverbank's Swamp Camp had a fantastic response throughout their 6-week summer camp program, being fully booked for most of the weeks, between 8-10 children per session, per day. The morning session ran from 9am-12 noon, and the afternoon session 1-4pm.
"We have had a great response from our community this year, and we really do appreciate all the support that we get from our community and our families here," adds Johnson-Boswel.
So, what happens once summer camp is complete? Listen to the audio clip below with Rochelle Johnson-Boswell as she explains!
Photo gallery: Swamp Camp 2023 pictures submitted by the Riverbank Discovery Centre
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