There is something about being outdoors that makes us happy. We are in our element and fresh air is our friend! So when our oldest son came home and talked about a program that his science teacher told him about, an activity that would be great for him over the summer, we checked it out!
Kansas WildLifer Challenge
The program is called, WildLifer Challenge, by the Kansas Wildscape Foundation. The program encourages children to venture out into the great outdoors and complete 15 challenges. Some challenges may take an hour or two to accomplish, while others may take an entire day. To complete each challenge, you must take a picture of your child actually participating in the activity. That photo is then added to each challenge submission, along with some responses on what was observed.
Our family enjoyed participating in some of the activities while on vacation in Colorado, where our son led us on a hike through the mountains. We watched the stars at night and was able to catch a meteor shower! We also spent some time at Great Plains Nature Center. We enjoyed watching the birds and finding animal prints along the path, trying to identify what animal they belonged to. It was time that we spent together, experiencing nature and getting creative. There were many opportunities like this throughout Wichita and something we looked forward to, as a family, with our son leading the way!
How it Works
Go to the Kansas WildScape Foundation, WildLifer Challenge, and sign up your child. There is no age limit required to participate. Our family often participated together!
Check out the 20 challenge options available to participate in. There is no race to complete the challenges, so take your time! 15 completed challenges will make them a WildLifer, but there are additional opportunities to complete too.
The first 500 kids to complete 15 challenges will receive a WildLifer package! This will include a t-shirt, certificate of completion, sticker and car decal to show they are a Kansas WildLifer! Since our oldest son was also in Cub Scouts, he received a patch from Kansas Wildscape too!
If this sounds like something for your child and family, get started on your journey today!