Katy Potoka, Development Officer at Cincinnati Nature Center

As I drove to Ziegler Park the morning of July 19th, I knew I was participating in Cincinnati Nature Center’s pop-up play program, but what I didn’t know is that I was embarking on a day full of surprises and boundless curiosity. Cincinnati Nature Center’s Nature for All program is all about connecting kids with the great outdoors and letting their imaginations lead the way for exploration, learning, and adventure. Most of all, it was a day that celebrated the simplest joys of nature. 

I joined the first group of campers as they arrived, at a table full of nature artifacts. Deer antlers, turtle shells, snake skins, and a collection of paper wasp nests drew oohs and aahs as the kids decided which item to explore first. We investigated each artifact wondering about what its purpose was and what creatures may have left them behind. A magnifying glass turned tiny details into topics of conversations. Watching as the children got to see the inside of a turtle shell for the first time or wondering about what type of snake left behind its textured shed, then discussing where and what it might be doing now, was a wonderful way to rediscover the excitement of childhood discovery and curiosity. 

Without missing a beat, the talented Nature Center naturalists moved us on to a new adventure—owl pellet dissection. With tweezers in hand and curious minds, we carefully sifted through the pellets. As we uncovered tiny bones, we were able to reveal what these nocturnal creatures had been feasting on. It was as if the kids were detectives investigating a nature mystery and they loved every minute of it! They weren’t just learning facts, they were forming a connection with the natural world. Before moving on to our next activity, one camper caught my attention. Standing on a park bench with a red-tailed hawk feather clutched in each hand he leapt into the air "taking flight". For a moment, he wasn’t a child in a park but a bird testing out his new wings. It was a moment of pure imagination and unbridled fun that captured the spirit of the day. 

The highlight of the day was a game of freeze tag, but with a twist—vulture tag, where spray bottles played the role of vulture vomit. Needless to say, this added a hilarious and intriguing spin to a classic game. As squeals filled the air, it was evident that the naturalists found the sweet spot between disgusting, intriguing, and fun. It was a simple game that provided endless fun while teaching about an important native raptor species. 

It was a casual day that was personally, a timely reminder that sometimes the simplest experiences can carry the greatest impact.

The Nature for All program is sponsored by our local Ford Dealers and the Bronco Wild Fund and is the driving force behind this nature pop-up play event. The collective generosity of local and national foundations, and staff dedication, is what allowed these children to experience the wonders of nature. 

As I headed home, I was reminded of that special magic that happens when you combine nature with imagination and the enthusiasm of young kids. Through the simple moments of the day, it helped me realize just how powerful experiences in nature can be. Nature bridges gaps, inspires creativity, and fosters connections to others and the natural world.