Learning happens anywhere a child goes, but parents may not always know how to support their learning. A new outdoor trail may be the answer for families looking for fun activities to help their child learn.
United Way Suncoast has partnered with the Early Learning Coalition of Pinellas County and community volunteers to create outdoor interactive trails throughout the county. The first of four will be unveiled on Tuesday, April 18, from 9 a.m. to noon at Lake Vista Recreation Center, 1401 62nd Ave., N.
“Parents are a child’s first teacher, with 90% of a child’s brain development happening before they reach kindergarten. We are proud to provide families with resources and services during their child’s earliest years,” said Lindsay Carson, CEO of Early Learning Coalition of Pinellas County. “The Born Learning Trails are an opportunity for children and families to engage together in play-based learning that supports children’s success in school.”
The Born Learning Trail is a series of learning activities that adults can play with young children. According to research, the trails will help boost language and literacy development to help families best understand how to support early learning in outdoor everyday moments. As part of United Way Suncoast’s Week of Caring, a multi-day event engaging more than 900 people across five counties, volunteers will be on hand at Lake Vista Recreation Center to assist with final touches on the new learning trail.
“We are excited to partner with the Early Learning Coalition to bring Born Learning Trails to Pinellas County,” said United Way Suncoast CEO Jessica Muroff. “Children learn best through play and these family focused trails are a wonderful resource for caregivers as they help prepare their children for kindergarten and beyond.”
Born Learning is a part of United Way Suncoast and the Early Learning Coalition of Pinellas County’s effort to help parents, caregivers, and communities provide young children with early learning opportunities. Community volunteers will beautify and prepare trails in Pinellas County starting April 18, 2023.
Born Learning Trail Set-Up Locations, Dates and Times:
• April 18, 2023, 9 a.m.-noon: Lake Vista Recreation Center, 1401 62nd Ave., N, St. Petersburg
• May 11, 2023, 9am-noon; Largo Central Park, 101 Central Park Dr., Largo
• May 16, 2023, 9am-noon: Lealman Neighborhood Park, 3890 55th St., N, St. Petersburg
• May 18, 2023, 9am-noon: Walter C Campbell Park, 801 N MLK St., Clearwater