Mini Winter Camp blends play, learning & snowy fun at Ohio Bird Sanctuary

LEXINGTON — Snow boots crunched, sleds slid and giggles echoed as the Ohio Bird Sanctuary (OBS) turned a typical winter morning into a pint-sized adventure for its youngest explorers.

The Mini Winter Camp welcomed children ages 3 to 5 on Saturday morning — each with an adult by their side — for a hands-on, snow-filled experience mixing play, learning and cozy indoor fun at the sanctuary.

Six children arrived bundled head to toe, ready to dive into winter activities designed just for them. The morning balanced outdoor excitement with creative, bird-themed learning inside.

Learning through play

The Mini Winter Camp kicked things off with crafts, building edible snowmen out of yogurt and chocolate chips. While children moved on to other activities, the snowmen sat outside on plates, freezing until they were ready to eat with hot chocolate at the end of the day.

Inside, children gathered on mats with eager ears as they listened to the story No Two Alike. Once the story was finished they learned the comparison of the story to snowflakes, being able to create their own custom snowflakes — proving no two are alike.

With crafts drying and snowmen freezing, the children bundled back up into their snow gear and prepared for the ride of their life down a snow packed hill on sleds.

The first few rides required help from parents as the kids made their paths fit for a speedy slope. After a few tries the kids were able to start sledding down the hill on their own — laughing and smiling as they flew past everyone.

Environmental Educator Clara Agnes said watching the children light up during these experiences she comes up with drives her work.

She explained programs like this help families build positive early connections with nature.

“If you have the chance to get outside with your kids, take that chance,” Agnes said. “They don’t stay young forever, and that first snow could be one of the best memories you have.”

A family favorite spot

Jennifer Crowl attended the camp with her daughter, Emmy, and said the OBS has become a regular stop for their family.

“We just love the birds, conservation and the educational aspect of it all,” Crowl said.

She added the sanctuary draws families into environmental advocacy through camps, boat tours and other programs.

Crowl said her oldest child, now 10, started attending OBS summer camps at age 5. Emmy has now taken part as a junior explorer, which she has done since she became old enough.

The OBS will host additional camps for intermediate and elementary-aged children in the coming weeks. Spots remain available, and registration can be found on the OBS website.

(Photos from the OBS Mini Winter Camp. Credit: Hannah Martin)