Return to Nature: Reviews of Nature Centers and Sanctuaries

I’ve been attending so many “Parent and Me” toddler groups this month (Gymboree, YMCA, and Phoenixville Library’s kids programs) that I was starting to feel the only way to entertain a toddler would involve a parachute, bubbles, and circle songs.  How can I get away from the daily trap of singing “Wheels on the Bus” to keep my little girl entertained?   

Return to Nature!  What can keep a child entertained more than flowers, butterflies, bunny rabbits, turtles, fish, and an assortment of farm animals? Nothing I can think of!  So we headed to the Upper Schuykill Valley Park on 1600 Black Rock Road in Royersford to check out what they have to offer a toddler.  The first thing checked out was the butterfly house, and while there weren’t any butterflies in it on this visit, there was a nice koi pond with frogs and turtles to enjoy. To get out of the heat, two air conditioned rooms allow for some nice animal viewing.  The rabbit house had some cute little thumpers to enjoy, and while we couldn’t pet them, it was nice to say helIo through the cages.  The barn where the piglets used to be housed has been converted into a wonderful indoor sanctuary for a fish pond, several snakes, frogs, and turtles, as well as a skunk and a minx.  I have to say that while I missed the little piggies, what they’ve done to the space is even more enjoyable!   Around the back of the buildings are areas to view eagles, vultures, owls, pheasants, and other birds.  Then finally enjoy the farm area where goats and foxes reside.  If your toddler isn’t too tired try a short nature walk on the canal trail and end up at the Schuykill Canal Park in Monte Clare. Be warned, this trail is NOT paved and has some rocks to traverse, so don’t take the stroller.   

The Upper Schuykill Valley Park is only a short mile from the Black Rock Sanctuary where there ARE paved trails for a stroller ride.  The toddler crowd will enjoy the giant bird’s nest to walk in and easy access to the pond for splashing and turtle spotting.  There is also a butterfly trail here as well as picnic areas so pack a lunch and enjoy nature a while.  A kid doesn’t need all the singing and dancing and playground equipment parents tend to scope out for entertainment.  Really, watching my daughter throw rocks in the stream at the Great Valley Nature Center for over an hour and a half taught me that much! I’d review the GVNC for you, but we honestly never made it past the creek both times we visited! However, stomping through the creek sure beat a dip in the chlorinated and crowded waters of Baker Pool at the Y on a hot day! Much better for your piece of mind too!

So before you circle up for yet another Parent and Me program of any variety, consider taking a vacation from the routine and return to nature.  You will be glad you did!