We all love playgrounds and swimming holes, but sometimes kids need a little more of a challenge to keep them motivated and excited about the outdoors. East Tennessee is a great place for youth to find fun activities and groups that challenge them physically and mentally to help keep them healthy and growing in all the right ways.
Today alone (Sept. 2), the Knoxville Track Club – a group known for high quality running events and training programs, is hosting a dedicated youth run at Tyson Park as part of its Youth Summer Greenway Series. Ages 2 – 12 are welcome to join in on these timed, one-mile races to help build up their stamina and provide a little healthy competition. The low cost of these events and the series format allows families to participate throughout the season and for kids to be encouraged by progress.
If you have a little extra time for a drive to Big South Fork, the National River & Recreation Area is also hosting a Junior Ranger Scavenger Hunt at the Bandy Creek Campground. This fun, 45-minute interpretive program gives kids the opportunity to work hands-on with a ranger, experience the beautiful natural setting with a bit more independence, and earn a Junior Ranger badge. The free admission and breathtaking views at Big South Fork make this a great family activity with a hint of challenge.
If you think your kids are ready for a little extra push into the great outdoors, check out one of these fun events this evening. Also take a look at some of the other great activities planned on OutdoorKnoxville.com like the Kid’s Triathlon coming up at the end of this month or the next Gold Medal Kids race next month.
I hope these opportunities will help your family Get Out & Play and give your kids a challenge to look forward to and help them grow.