We want to connect you with resources in your region that will help you and your family Play, Explore and Learn in nature. This page has useful links to things like curriculum, training opportunities, and tangible resources like gear or equipment. These resources come from our partners and are not an endorsement by TCiN or Nature Rocks Texas, but simply meant to be helpful to families.
The Austin ISD At-Home Learning site will continue to remain accessible during the summer of 2020 so that students, teachers, and caregivers can access resources and learn how to navigate online tools. Parents of students served by Special Education and Section 504 services are encouraged to continue engaging with your campus and district contact person to support your student’s individualized needs. Families are encouraged to visit this site frequently for updates. We all hope to see you soon!
National Wildlife Federation has over 1,000 lesson plans designed to introduce students to life science, ecology, wildlife biology, scientific identification and observation. All lesson plans are aligned to the National Science Education Standards.
The NOAA Office of Ocean Exploration and Research provides a variety of learning and teaching tools designed to engage broad audiences and enhance America’s environmental literacy through the excitement of ocean discovery. In this Educational Materials section, you will find links to hundreds of lesson plans written by teachers for teachers, lessons built around specific ocean exploration expeditions across the globe.
The NOAA Office of Ocean Exploration and Research provides a variety of learning and teaching tools designed to engage broad audiences and enhance America’s environmental literacy through the excitement of ocean discovery. In this Educational Materials section, you will find links to hundreds of lesson plans written by teachers for teachers, lessons built around specific ocean exploration expeditions across the globe.
Texas Parks and Wildlife offers tackle for fishing at multiple sites around the state. You simply check out the tackle like you would a library book and return it when you are done. Also when you are fishing in a state park, you do not need a fishing license, but you do need to follow the fishing guidelines for size and limits. Find out which state parks have the tackle loaner program near you.
Texas Wildlife Association offers on-demand webinars about wildlife and conservation. You can view these as an individual or use them in the classroom or in a home school setting.
Your child can become a junior ranger and even check out an Explore Pack at most state parks. Find out how your child can become a junior ranger and start exploring at a state park near you.
Does your family enjoy spending time outside, but sometimes wish you had other families to explore with? A Family Nature Club is a great way for families to come together to plan outings, learn from each other and even enjoy greater adventures like camping or backpacking. Discover how you can start your own, volunteer lead club and use Nature Rocks Texas to connect with the events, parks, zoos and nature centers in your community.
Nature is a great teacher! Try these fun and easy-to-do activity ideas from Project Learning Tree to connect the children in your life to the outdoors and nature. Suitable for children ages 3 - 15.
Have you ever wanted to take your entire class on a campout, but lacked the time or budget to do so? The Texas Children in Nature network and Texas Parks and Wildlife Department have put together a step-by-step guide to help you plan and execute a campus campout.
