Now that warmer temperatures have arrived, it’s a great time to get the family outside and break the cabin fever that’s been lingering all winter. What better way to get “back to nature” than a hike in the woods.
Many people may be unaware that there’s an amazing hiking spot right in southwest St. Louis County at the Powder Valley Conservation Nature Center.
Located just off highways 270 and 44 in Sunset Hills, Powder Valley features three miles of paved trails through 112 acres of majestic forest. The sloping rocky woods are a haven of towering trees and tangled vines. Entire families of deer and other wildlife can be spotted and each season renews the landscape. Give the kids a hands-on nature lesson and relax your frame of mind as you wander the trails.
Trails are open daily from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. and the center also offers special events and classes, such as “Tap. Tap Tap. Woodpeckers!” a class for kids ages 3-6 being offered on Thursday, March 18 from 10:30 to 11:15 a.m. during which kids will hear a story and make suet feeders to take home. Check the center’s blog for regular updates on events and classes: http://www.powdervalleynature.blogspot.com and put on your hiking shoes!
Amy Burger, Events Blogger for Smart Parenting
Amy Burger is a mom, freelance writer and communications professional with nearly 20 years experience working in St. Louis. Her work has appeared in numerous publications and media outlets including STL Parent, Missouri Life magazine, the St. Louis Post-Dispatch, Town & Style and kdhx.org, among others. When she's not working, she enjoys spending time with her husband and two beautiful girls at home in Kirkwood.
The Preschool Science Series is an open exploration learning lab for young scientists - ages 18 months to 5 years - and their families. Activities are designed around research that shows children learn best through play, inquiry and shared experiences with their parents and caregivers.
Free outdoor concerts are back at the Missouri History Museum. The May series of concerts features favorite bands, food trucks, and exhibits inside the museum that are open to the public on concert nights. Concerts are held from 6-8 p.m.
Is it time to potty train your toddler? The St. Louis County Library is offering Potty Training 101 to parents of children ages 2-3. This free workshop for parent and child includes a potty-themed storytime, and parents & caregivers will receive information to get them started on the potty training process. Attendees will also receive a potty seat, step stool, training pants and a potty-themed board book.
Visit The Magic House for Toddler Time, a special early-morning program for toddlers. Children age 1-4 can take part in exhibits and exclusive interactive activities designed just for little ones. There are new themes every week!
Take part in a free yoga session just for kids! Children's yoga, presented by Complete Harmony, is held at the Brentwood Public Library on Thursdays from 9:30 to 10 a.m. Classes include stories, movement and mindfulness and are geared for children up to age 5. Bring a yoga mat or towel.