Calling all young adventurers! Get ready for an exciting exploration of concrete jungles and urban green spaces this summer with the Junior Rangers Urban Landscapes program. Designed specifically for curious minds aged 6-10, this hands-on adventure offers children the perfect opportunity to discover the surprising natural features that exist within our city environments. From pocket parks to urban wildlife corridors, Junior Rangers will develop a deeper appreciation for nature that thrives alongside human development while building valuable outdoor skills and environmental awareness.

Junior Rangers Urban Landscapes Week transforms city spaces into unique classrooms where discovery and learning blend seamlessly with fun. Children will engage with experienced guides who specialize in making nature accessible and exciting for young explorers. This program represents a unique opportunity for kids to disconnect from screens and reconnect with the natural world around them. Parents, prepare for your children to return home bubbling with fascinating facts about urban ecosystems and a newfound enthusiasm for environmental stewardship!

Junior Rangers Urban Landscapes Week: Essential details about the 2025 program running Monday-Wednesday from 10am-1pm, including registration requirements ($20 per child), necessary attire (closed-toe shoes, weather-appropriate clothing), distance from Fredericksburg, Virginia, items to bring (lunch, water bottle), and pre-program preparation (sunscreen, bug spray application).

The 2025 Junior Rangers Urban Landscapes Week will run Monday through Wednesday from 10:00am to 1:00pm, offering children aged 6-10 a three-day adventure exploring urban ecosystems. This outdoor immersion experience costs just $20 per child for the entire week, making it an affordable summer activity that combines education with exploration. Located a convenient 15-minute drive from downtown Fredericksburg, Virginia, the program is accessible for local families while providing a refreshing change of scenery. Registration must be completed in advance through the provided Eventbrite listing, with payment finalized either by phone or in person at the Visitor Center.

Parents should ensure their Junior Rangers come prepared for active outdoor exploration each day. Weather-appropriate clothing is essential, as participants will be getting their hands dirty while investigating urban nature. Closed-toe shoes are mandatory for safety during all activities. Each child should bring a packed lunch and a reusable water bottle daily to stay fueled and hydrated throughout the adventures. Before arriving each morning, parents should apply sunscreen and bug spray to their children, as much of the program takes place in sunny or wooded urban areas. Be prepared for the possibility of getting wet or muddy—it’s all part of the authentic outdoor experience!

Program Logistics and Safety Procedures: Important information for parents/guardians regarding the check-in process (arriving 15 minutes early on the first day), required documentation (emergency contact form, signed code of conduct), and pick-up protocol (authorized adults with photo ID must sign children in/out).

Parents and guardians should plan to arrive at least 15 minutes early on the first day of the Junior Rangers program to complete important paperwork and ensure a smooth start to the adventure. This extra time allows staff to collect essential emergency contact information for each child and review the program’s code of conduct, which both parent/guardian and child will need to read and sign together. These procedures help create a safe, respectful learning environment where all young explorers can thrive. The check-in process establishes clear communication channels between program leaders and families, ensuring everyone understands expectations and safety protocols from day one.

The Junior Rangers program maintains strict safety measures throughout the week, particularly during daily drop-off and pick-up times. Only adults who are specifically listed on a child’s emergency contact form may sign Junior Rangers in or out of the program, and photo identification must be presented each time. This security measure provides peace of mind for parents while allowing program staff to maintain appropriate supervision of all participants. The structured sign-in/sign-out process might take a few extra minutes each day, but it represents an important commitment to children’s safety during this urban nature exploration. Parents are encouraged to communicate any special arrangements in advance to ensure seamless transitions at the beginning and end of each day’s adventure.