#moregreentimelessscreentime — Public Fediverse posts

From 2023... #TechExecs protect their kids from their own products. America’s children deserve the same

While #BigTech fights regulations that would protect children, its leaders apply a different standard for their own offspring.

BY Katie A. Paul, 5/24/2023

Excerpt: "As detailed in news reports in recent years, members of the tech elite have directed their nannies to keep their kids away from #AddictiveScreens and sent their kids to a private San Francisco school with a strict no-screens policy. 'I just wanted our kids to have a #TechnologyFree start, so that they would be playing and running around and picking up leaves and getting dirty, rather than sitting inside and watching a screen,' said one parent.

"This attitude extends to the C-suite. Susan Wojcicki, who recently stepped down as YouTube CEO, admitted in 2017 that she sometimes confiscated her kids’ phones. Google’s chief executive, Sundar Pichai, revealed in 2018 that his 11-year-old son did not have a phone. The following year, Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg explained that he didn’t want his young children sitting in front of a computer 'for a long period of time.'

"One former Facebook executive, Chamath Palihapitiya, put it more bluntly, saying that he felt 'tremendous guilt' about helping to build the social network and that his children 'aren’t allowed to use that shit.'

"These admissions have been largely forgotten with the speed of the news cycle over the past five years. But taken together, they reveal an industry that tries to shield its kids from the dangers of technology—while touting the very same products for everyone else. It begs the question: Why shouldn’t America’s young people receive the same levels of protection that Silicon Valley parents provide for their own?

While tech executives have gone quieter lately on the subject of how they regulate tech use for their offspring, there are signs that they continue to harbor private doubts about the products they market to the world. When tech-focused publication The Information surveyed more than 1,000 subscribers last year, it found that 'Silicon Valley’s children spend far less time on screens than the average American kid.'

[...]

By trying to shield their kids from the ill effects of the products they make, tech leaders are following a pattern seen in industries like #BigTobacco, whose executives, in congressional testimony 25 years ago, conceded that they didn’t want their children to smoke."

Read more:
https://www.fastcompany.com/90900166/tech-social-media-protection-children

#NoPhones #TechAddiction #BigTech #TakeThePhonesAway #BigData #SpendTimeInNature #AISucks #MoreGreenTimeLessScreenTime

This place sounds so cool!

#Toronto - The Children’s Garden at #EvergreenBrickworks is where kids can explore and connect with nature. It’s a place for kids to get hands on the natural world, including exploring the garden’s rich array of plants.

- Summer weekdays, July and August: 5:30pm to dusk (after Summer Camp programs)
- School-Year weekdays, September through June: 4pm to dusk (after Children’s Education programs)
- Year-round weekends and holidays: 8am to dusk

Ecology at the Children’s Garden

"Our #UrbanAgriculture beds within the garden offer space to grow familiar veggies and herbs. Garden spaces like these can play a vital role in bringing together community members to work to grow food collectively. They can also teach us some valuable lessons on the value of farms and protected local agricultural land, which are able to produce food on a much larger scale.

Located inside the Children’s Garden, the Guild Garden is designed with children in mind. Made possible by support from Forester’s Financial, the garden is built around a central cherry tree surrounded by many species of plants (including fruit shrubs, berries, vegetables and herbs) to create a rich and diverse garden for children to explore. The plants chosen for this garden support #BeneficialInsects, help deter pests and protect the soil.

Lining the alley leading up the garden, stockpots and metal container were installed in 2021 by Foresters Financial, to showcase a regenerative landscape, while also providing food for both pollinators and people. The art on the planters was designed by #Délı̨nę #FirstNations artist and printmaker #LauraGrier.

Milkcrate containers are a legacy left over from the #BoweryProject, which seeks to set up mobile urban farms by setting up #ContainerGardens in urban lots. Initially installed in 2015 with an urban agriculture focus, the milkcrates were revitalized in 2023 into a native container garden concept. This project aims to demonstrate to visitors that NativePlantGardens can be planted anywhere, even without a yard. The containers also aim to model the creation of #GreenCorridors that connect fragmented pieces of habitat throughout the city; to this end they were planted out with plants donated by #ProjectSwallowtail, which aims to connect #greenspaces across the city.

The milkcrate containers in the alley contain edible native plant species. In 2023 they were planted out with the following:

• Anise Hyssop (Agastache foeniculum)
• Blue Vervain (Verbena hastata)
• Spotted Beebalm (Monarda punctata)
• Violets (Viola labradorica)
• Wild Strawberry (Fragaria virginiana)"

FMI:
https://www.evergreen.ca/evergreen-brick-work/activities/the-childrens-garden/

#SolarPunkSunday #SpendTimeInNature #NatureBasedLearning #BuildingCommunity #EdibleGarden #GreenerCities #UrbanGardens #MoreGreenTimeLessScreenTime #ChildrensGarden

#Florida - #Birding #Backpacks

"Explore the Nature Coast and the native birds of Citrus County with a Birding Backpack from your Citrus Library. These Birding Backpacks contain everything you need to identify birds native to Florida and North America.

What are Birding Backpacks

The Nature Coast is home to many kinds of birds. Citrus County alone is home to at least 330 bird species. This is over one-fourth of the birds that have been seen in the United States!

It only makes sense that the Citrus County Audubon Society would want to share their love of this “Birder’s Paradise” with others.

These Birding Backpacks, assembled by the Citrus County Library system, include materials provided by the Citrus County Audubon Society, Max Schulman, Tom Craig, and the Citrus County Library system.

Each Birding Backpack contains:

1 pair binoculars
1 book Birds of Florida field guide
1 pamphlet Birds of Central Florida : a guide to common & notable species
1 pamphlet Florida Birds : a folding pocket guide to familiar species."

Learn more:
https://www.citruslibraries.org/services-resources/birding-backpacks/

#SolarPunkSunday #ExploreNature #SpendTimeInNature #NatureBackpacks #SpendTimeOutdoors #BirdingBackpack #NatureBasedLearning #LearningThroughNature #LibrariesRule! #MoreGreenTimeLessScreenTime

A list of the items (and approximate cost) included in the #MaineAudubon #NatureExplorer packs (which are no longer available, unfortunately). This one is for the #Plant pack. Link to PDFs for printing are below.

LLBean Original Backpack $36.95

Forest Trees of Maine - Maine Forest Service $15.00

Pocket Naturalist Guide: New England Trees & Wildflowers $7.95

Take-Along Guide: Berries, Nuts, and Seeds $7.95

Wooden dual 5x and 10x magnifier (w/case) $12.50

Specimen box with magnifying lid $4.50

Sorting Sheet $2.00

Paint Chips [for color identification]

Lapboard $2.00

Pencil pouch, containing:
- Colored pencils (12)
- Pencil
- Pencil sharpener
- Crayons (8)
$7.00

Additional items contained in the Audubon Plant packs (estimated cost $2.00 -- pretty much, the cost of printing out the PDFs)

User guide, containing:
- Introduction
- Exploring Nature Together: Tips for Families
- Using your smartphone to connect to nature
- Explore: Plants
- Read: Plants
- Take Action: Plants
- Activity Idea: Color Hunt
- Activity Idea: Bark and Leaf Rubbings
- Illustrated Glossary of Leaf Shapes
- Nature Journaling Template
- Blank paper
- Survey

Link to Maine Audubon's printed materials (Google Drive):
https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1yMls_QNHpxOOqdckJwZge1IeE3Vv3rtE?usp=drive_link

#SolarPunkSunday #SpendTimeInNature
#SpendTimeOutdoors #PlantIdentification #LearningThroughNature
#MoreGreenTimeLessScreenTime

#Wyoming - #Birding #AdventureBackpacks – Inspiring the next generation of #birders!

"Would you and your family love to go on a birding adventure right in your own community? Or possibly in a neighboring county?

You need an Birding Adventure Backpack!

- Laramie County Public Library – #CheyenneWY
- Laramie County Library System – #BurnsBranch
- Laramie County Library System – #PineBluffsBranch

and now in Torrington & Guernsey too!

Goshen County Library – #TorringtonWY
Guernsey Branch Library – #GuernseyWY

Check out these awesome birding backpacks! Everything you and your family needs to spot those elusive #warblers, #flycatchers, and waterfowl in our lovely #parks and #WildlifeRefuges.

Need more information on WHERE to bird? Check out 'Birding our Region/Locations' on the Audubon website. Near and far, Laramie, Platte, and Goshen Counties have lovely birding locations to visit.

Special thanks to our Education Team and our wonderful libraries throughout our Chapter region. They welcomed us with 'open wings' … Now GET OUT AND BIRD WYOMING! Adventure awaits!"

Learn more:
https://cheyenneaudubon.org/education-conservation-2/

#SolarPunkSunday #ExploreNature #Wildlife #LaramieCounty #Audubon #SpendTimeInNature #NatureBackpacks #SpendTimeOutdoors #Birding #NatureBasedLearning #LearningThroughNature #LibrariesRule! #MoreGreenTimeLessScreenTime

So, here is a list of the items (and approximate cost) included in the #MaineAudubon #NatureExplorer packs (which are no longer available, unfortunately). This one is for the #Birding pack. Link to PDFs for printing are below.

LLBean Original Backpack $36.95

Look up! Birdwatching in Your Own Backyard - Annette LeBlanc Cate $15.99

Sibley East by David Sibley $19.95

Birds of Maine by Stan Tekiela $13.95

Tasco Essentials 8x42 binoculars (w/case) $50.00

Wooden dual 5x and 10x magnifier (w/case) $12.50

Audubon bird call $8.95

Bird photo cards $2.00

Nest photo cards $1.00

Lapboard $2.00

Pencil pouch, containing:
- Colored pencils (12)
- Pencil
- Pencil sharpener
$7.00

Additional items contained in the Audubon Birding packs (estimated cost $2.00 -- pretty much, the cost of printing out the PDFs)

User guide, containing:
- Introduction
- Exploring Nature Together: Tips for Families
- Using your smartphone to connect to nature
- Explore: Birds
- Read: Birds
- Take Action: Birds
- Activity Ideas: Bird Photo Cards
- Activity Idea: Build a Nest
- Nature Journaling Template
- Birds of Maine Checklist
- Blank paper
- Survey

Link to Maine Audubon's printed materials (Google Drive):
https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1gxjXyK86ZrDtt2qetiBXfQqSAiVuSABE?usp=drive_link

#SolarPunkSunday #SpendTimeInNature #SpendTimeOutdoors #Wildlife #LearningThroughNature #MoreGreenTimeLessScreenTime

#Maryland - #Library #Backpacks

"Thanks to support from the Nora Roberts Foundation, there are #NatureExplorer backpacks at all of the local libraries in the Eastern Panhandle, at some libraries nearby in Maryland, and at the nature center at #CacaponStatePark. They are available for checkout with your library card!

The packs provide families with all the tools they need to get their children outside exploring #nature. Each pack contains a variety of #books, #FieldGuides, supplies and #ActivityIdeas centered on different themes. Backpacks themes include #Birds, #Reptiles and #Amphibians, #BackyardHabitats, #Mammals, #Insects, and Winter."

Learn more:
https://www.potomacaudubon.org/education/all-ages/library-backpacks/

#SolarPunkSunday #ExploreNature #Wildlife #PotomacValley #PotomacValleyAudubonSociety #SpendTimeInNature #NatureBackpacks #SpendTimeOutdoors #NatureBasedLearning #LearningThroughNature #LibrariesRule! #MoreGreenTimeLessScreenTime

So, here is a list of the items (and approximate cost) included in the #MaineAudubon #NatureExplorer packs (which are no longer available, unfortunately). This one is for the #Wildlife pack. Link to PDFs for printing are below.

LLBean Original Backpack $36.95

Falcon Guide to Scats and Tracks of the Northeast - James C. Halfpenny, PhD., Jim Bruchac, Todd Telander $12.95

Kaufman Guide to New England - Kenn & Kimberly Kaufman $22.00

Pocket Naturalist Guide: Maine Wildlife - Kavanagh/Leung $7.95

Pocket Naturalist Guide: Bugs and Slugs - Kavanagh/Leung $7.95

Wooden Dual 5x and 10x magnifier (w/case) $12.50

Specimen Box with magnifying lid $4.50

Plastic Trowel $4.00

Plastic container with lid

Animal Track Rubber Stamps (w/inkpad, 18 stamps) $19.99

Lapboard $2.00

Pencil pouch, containing:
- Colored pencils (12)
- Pencil
- Pencil sharpener
$7.00

Additional items contained in the Audubon packs (estimated cost $2.00 -- pretty much, the cost of printing out the PDFs)

User guide, containing:
- Introduction
- Exploring Nature Together: Tips for Families
- Using your smartphone to connect to nature
- Explore: Wildlife
- Read: Wildlife
- Take Action: Wildlife
- Activity Idea: Make a Pitfall Trap
- Activity Idea: Animal Track Rubber Stamps
- Nature Journaling Template
- Maine Animal Tracks
- Blank paper
- Survey

Link to Maine Audubon's printed materials (Google Drive):
https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1Ld3J8D3l1ADwHl2j1BH-INvzZ63Lnkj7?usp=drive_link

#SolarPunkSunday #SpendTimeInNature #SpendTimeOutdoors #Wildlife #LearningThroughNature #MoreGreenTimeLessScreenTime

#AlfredME - Alfred #ElementarySchool #NatureHike

0.8mi Length
36ft Elevation gain
0.5–1hr Estimated time, Out & back

"This short trail starts in the parking lot of the elementary school. There is an #OutdoorClassroom, #VernalPonds, and #swale. Small bridges have been built over wet areas. There are small signs with information about the natural environment. Although there are blue blazes on trees, the trail is not easy to follow as it gets further from the school."

FMI:
https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/maine/alfred-elementary-school-nature-hike

#SolarPunkSunday #SpendTimeInNature #SpendTimeOutdoors #NatureHikes #MoreGreenTimeLessScreenTime #NatureBasedLearning

So yeah. #ToyLibraries are on the #SolarPunkSunday agenda. If you know of a toy library, or #LibraryOfThings that lends out stuff for kids, let us know!!! I'll be sharing listings of items for #NatureBackpacks, with some suggested materials.

#MoreGreenTimeLessScreenTime! #MoreToysLessApps!

So true, @artensterben ! We need to reconnect with #Nature! #MoreGreenTimeLessScreenTime

#SolarPunkSunday #SpendTimeInNature #PreserveNature

#VirtualEvent - Best Crops for #SchoolGardens & Orchards

Thursday, January 22, 2026 at 6:00 pm

"January is a key time for dreaming up a bountiful garden space! Join #SeedStLouis staff for a virtual presentation on our top recommendations for edible school and youth garden spaces. This presentation will detail various options for vegetables, perennials, and orchard plants that consider safety, youth interest, curriculum connections, the academic calendar, attainable maintenance, and reliable crop varieties accessible through Seed St. Louis."

https://zoom.us/webinar/register/5817653854468/WN_pj2m8kB5QHm9S6EUc1H5kA#/registration

#SolarPunkSunday #SeedSaintLouis #GrowYourOwn #GrowYourOwnFood #SchoolGarden #SchoolOrchards #SpendTimeInNature #NatureBasedLearning #MoreGreenTimeLessScreenTime

How to Start a #SchoolGarden: Your Complete Guide

Excerpt: "Benefits of school gardens

1. School gardens help children learn.

Gardening is the study of life. The simple act of caring for living soil and plants gives children a foundation for understanding the principles of birth, growth, maturity, death, competition, cooperation and many other lessons that transfer to human lives. In a school garden, children experience these lessons ‘hands on’ through a learning method that is rich and inclusive to varied learning abilities. The results teachers see every day are now supported by science: school gardens can help our children learn better, both academically and emotionally. For more information, read School Gardens: Can They Make Our Children Smarter?

2. Gardening together strengthens ties between school and community.

School gardening programs offer opportunities for community members to get involved, reducing the social isolation of seniors with skills to share and connecting children to older generations. They also help connect schools to local businesses and groups when they request sponsorship or volunteer assistance.

3. Getting their hands dirty helps connect children with nature.

Children who garden get a close-up look at natural processes and the living organisms that thrive in these environments. By learning to care for a living, breathing #ecosystem, children develop an understanding of nature’s importance in their lives and the lives of other beings. This fosters a culture of #EnvironmentalStewardship.

4. Gardening strengthens children’s immune systems.

There’s more and more evidence that getting #dirty exposes us to a variety of #microbes that can fortify our health and balance our immune systems against our overly sterilized world. This is particularly true for children who benefit from reduced allergies and asthma when exposed early in life to #dirt and the outdoors. The #VitaminD they absorb when gardening doesn’t hurt, either!

5. Working in a school garden helps children stay active, reducing obesity.

Teachers across the country agree: when children garden, they move their bodies more than when passively listening in a classroom. Jumping, bending, lifting, and stretching all take place during a typical gardening session. This is one of the objectives of gardening in school that most can agree is necessary given our increasingly sedentary way of life.

6. Gardening moderates moods and eases anxiety.

There’s some evidence that exposure to the beneficial microbes in soil can help regulate the neurotransmitters affecting our brain’s emotional state. A whole practice involving exposing yourself to green spaces to lift the mood has even emerged globally, with convincing results. But gardens are more than just another green space: they’re hands-on, outdoor classrooms that teach children self-regulation and mindfulness—both of which have been shown to decrease anxiety and depression.

7. Children who garden at school develop empathy and practice risk.

Teachers who garden with their students notice increased empathy towards other students and the organisms living in their school patch. That’s because tending to a ‘bug hotel’ or watching birds and earthworms thrive in the garden helps children understand the interdependency of nature. A garden also provides the perfect place for children to learn about boundaries and responsibility by practicing new activities in a safe space. Using a paring knife, trying out a hammer, or balancing on the edge of a raised bed are all ways for children to test their edges and learn new skills in a supportive environment.

8. Teaching and food gardens improve children’s diets.

Academics and journalists agree: children who garden eat more fresh vegetables. This extends beyond what they nibble on during classroom gardening time. Apparently just having a garden at school increases their intake of vegetables at home. And that’s good news for parents, teachers, and kids."

Learn more:
https://learn.eartheasy.com/guides/how-to-start-a-school-garden-your-complete-guide/

#SolarPunkSunday #SchoolGardens #FoodSecurity #NatureBasedLearning #MoreGreenTimeLessScreenTime #GrowYourOwn #GrowYourOwnFood

#GilslandFarm Bird Walk

No bird walks on December 25 or January 1. We’ll see you on January 8, 2026!

"Join us for a weekly bird walk at Gilsland Farm, led by #MaineAudubon’s Staff #Naturalist #DougHitchcox and others. Meet in the parking lot, in front of the Visitor Center, where we’ll begin a slow walk around the property to look and listen for birds using Gilsland’s diverse habitats. Free, no registration required.

The walk typically covers between 1 to 2 miles (1.5 – 3 km). Waterproof shoes are recommended as the paths can be damp with dew in the mornings and icy when frozen. Please bring your binoculars, but we do have extra pairs if you need them, just ask Doug when you arrive.

Maine Audubon strives to provide inclusive and accessible programs for all members of the community. If you require accommodations to participate in this program, please email [email protected]. Maine Audubon can best meet the needs of requests submitted at least seven days before the event start date."

https://maineaudubon.org/events/gilsland-farm-bird-walks-w2026/

A list of recent sightings from Gilsland Farm can be found here: https://ebird.org/hotspot/L251783

#SolarPunkSunday #MaineEvents
#Birdwatching #Birding #SpendTimeInNature #MoreGreenTimeLessScreenTime

#MaineAudubon - Indoor/ Outdoor Beginner #Birding at #GilslandFarm

"We’ll spend the first hour of this program watching birds at the feeder from the warmth of our Discovery Center. Then we’ll head out and explore the trails. Our naturalist will answer questions and make identification less overwhelming to new birders. Feel free to come for either or both portions of this program. Binoculars (and instructions) will be provided."

Gilsland Farm
9:30 am-11:30 am
Third Saturday of the month (12/20 postponed to 1/3, 1/17, 2/21)

"Maine Audubon strives to provide inclusive and accessible programs for all members of the community. If you require accommodations to participate in this program, please email [email protected]. Maine Audubon can best meet the needs of requests submitted at least seven days before the event start date."

FMI - https://maineaudubon.org/events/indoor-outdoor-beginner-birding-at-gilsland-farm/

#SolarPunkSunday #MaineEvents #BirdWatching #Nature #SpendTimeInNature #MoreGreenTimeLessScreenTime

TOMORROW! Sunday, December 21st! At #MaineAudubon at #GilslandFarm in #FalmouthME

"Celebrate the #WinterSolstice at Gilsland Farm with our annual family-friendly storytime and lantern walk. We’ll start with free play and lantern decorating before gathering outside for a storytime with hot beverages and blankets. At 4 pm, we’ll walk to the top of the West Meadow and wave goodbye to the sun as it sets on the shortest day of the year. This event is best suited for families with children ages 3-10, but all are welcome! Siblings under 3 are free.

$9 per child member /$15 per child nonmember

Maine Audubon strives to provide inclusive and accessible programs for all members of the community. If you require accommodations to participate in this program, please email [email protected]. Maine Audubon can best meet the needs of requests submitted at least seven days before the event start date."

Dec 21 2025
Time: 3:00 pm - 4:30 pm

More Info:
https://maineaudubon.org/events/winter-solstice-storytime-lantern-walk-at-gilsland-farm/

#SolarPunkSunday #MaineEvents #SpendTimeInNature #WinterSolstice #MoreGreenTimeLessScreenTime

I somehow missed seeing this event (going on right now). I'll keep an eye on future #MaineAudubon events!

#WinterSolstice Celebration at #FieldsPond

"Celebrate the winter solstice with us at this family-friendly event! Immerse yourself in the magic of Eve Bunting’s The Night Tree as we read the story aloud and create #wildlife-friendly ornaments to decorate a tree for Maine winter creatures. Then, join the #PenobscotValleyStargazers for a fascinating look at the astronomical significance of the shortest day of the year. Warm beverages and snacks will be provided—come cozy up and enjoy a festive afternoon with nature and loved ones!"

Date: Dec 20 2025
Time: 3:00 pm - 7:00 pm

https://maineaudubon.org/events/winter-solstice-celebration-at-fields-pond/

#SolarPunkSunday #MaineEvents #SpendTimeInNature #MoreGreenTimeLessScreenTime

#Maine #StatePark #FirstDayHikes, part of the nationwide initiative led by America’s State Parks to encourage people to get outdoors, are a combination of led and self-guided hikes, and virtual visits for 2026.

Guided Program Listings:

#CamdenHills State Park, #CamdenME - 9:00 a.m. Meet at the visitor center. Join us for a scenic 2.6-mile hike on the #Megunticook and #Adams Lookout Trails with Park Ranger Erik Hallsey to ring in 2026. The Megunticook Trail is a moderately difficult hike that leads to the easy Adams Lookout Trail. Both trails provide scenic points that include excellent views of #PenobscotBay. Leashed pets are welcome. Read all the details and view the flyer. FMI: (207) 236-0849.

#HolbrookIsland Sanctuary, #BrooksvilleME - 1-4:00 p.m. Meet at the Backshore Trail parking lot on Indian Bar Road. Join us for a leisurely 2.85 mile walk for all ages to ring in the New Year! Meet and Greet at 1:00 - Warm beverages, water, and snacks will be on hand at the start and finish of our walk. The guided hike will begin at 1:30 or explore on your own anytime during the afternoon. Please wear warm clothing and sturdy footwear. Leash pets are welcome. Read all the details and view the flyer. FMI: (207) 326-4012.

#SebagoLake State Park, Campground Side of Park, #Naples<E. Meet at 1:00 p.m. at the campground booth. Join us for a leisurely 1-mile walk for all ages on January 1 to ring in the New Year! Meet at campground booth on the Naples side of the park, for snacks and beverages, which will be provided. This will be an easy to moderate 1- mile hike around Horseshoe Bog; a mostly flat, and slightly rocky trail. All ages are welcome, but parents should be prepared to carry their children if they tire. Parents must accompany children under 12 years old. No pets on this hike, please. Park entry and program are free to First Day Hikers. Read all the details and view the First Day Hike flyer. FMI: (207) 693-6231.

#TwoLights State Park, #CapeElizabethME - 6:30-9:00 a.m. The park is off Route 77. Meet at High Head at the rose garden. Arrive at 6:30 for the sunrise. Hike begins at 7:30. This is a leasurely 3/4-mile loop hike along the shoreline and woodland paths. Parents must accompany children under 12 years old. Leashed pets are welcome. Read all the details and view the flyer. FMI: (207) 799-5871.

Self-guided Hike Guides:
#BradburyMountain State Park, #FreeportME
Camden Hills State Park, Camden
#PophamBeach State Park, #PhippsburgME
#ReidStatePark, #GeorgetownME
#WolfesNeck Woods State Park, Freeport
Share your self-guided hike photos and comments with us by tagging @mainedacf to Instagram and Facebook.
Stay Informed with Safety Updates.

FMI (includes link to guides):
https://www.maine.gov/dacf/parks/discover_history_explore_nature/activities/first-day-hikes.shtml

#MaineParks #NatureEvents #NatureHikes #NewYearsHikes #SpendTimeInNature
#MoreGreenTimeLessScreenTime #MaineEvents #SolarPunkSunday

#FirstDay Hikes at Select #MaineStateParks with Guided and Self-guided Options

"Maine State Park First Day Hikes, part of the nationwide initiative led by America’s State Parks to encourage people to get outdoors, are a combination of led and self-guided hikes, as well as virtual visits to help you kick off 2026.

Join in on the fun and start out your New Year within the beauty and solace of a Maine State Park. Program listings are provided below. You can also download materials for self-guided hikes and view the virtual visits at BPL's First Day Hike page.

Program Listings - Join Us on January 1, 2026:

#CamdenHills State Park, #CamdenME
#HolbrookIsland State Park, #BrooksvilleME
#SebagoLake State Park - Campground side of park, #NaplesME
#TwoLights State Park, #CapeElizabethME

Enjoy the free park entry and program for First Day Hikers!"

FMI: https://www.maine.gov/dacf/parks/discover_history_explore_nature/activities/first-day-hikes.shtml

#MaineParks #NatureEvents #NatureHikes #NewYearsHikes #SpendTimeInNature
#MoreGreenTimeLessScreenTime #MaineEvents #SolarPunkSunday

#Maine - #WinterSolstice Walk at #KettleCove #StatePark

Division / Program: Parks and Lands
Date: Sunday, December 21, 2025
Time: 3:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Location: 49 Kettle Cove Road, #CapeElizabethME. Meet at the park's maintenance shop.
State Park: Kettle Cove State Park
Event Type: #NatureExploration, Special Event

"The Winter Solstice is the shortest day of the year-- a day of beginnings, of storytelling, of reflection, of celebrating and more. For ancient astronomers, it was the day that the sun appeared at its lowest in the Northern Hemisphere sky and at its farthest southern point over Earth. It's also the day that the Earth and all of us are closest to the sun. Join naturalist Jeanne Christie for a walk to the shore at Kettle Cove to learn a bit of ancient history, astronomy, stories of past cultures, and to reflect and celebrate the beginning of the longest night of the year."

Contact Name: C/O Crescent Beach State Park
Contact Phone: (207) 799-5871
Cost: Free with park admission: Adult Maine Resident: $3; Adult Non-Resident: $4; Senior Non-Resident: $1; Children 5-11 years old: $1; Children under 5 and Maine Seniors are free.

Link to PDF:
https://www.maine.gov/tools/whatsnew/attach.php?id=13336117&an=1

#SolarPunkSunday #NatureEvents #SolsticeEvents #WinterSolsticeEvents #SpendTimeInNature #MoreGreenTimeLessScreenTime #WinterSolstice #MaineEvents #Storytelling #History #Astronomy

I went on a hike by myself today (#IndianCellarPreserve). I love to hike by myself because I can meander, take photos, observe birds, see what's growing and what isn't. An hour-long hike can easily take me 2-1/2 hours. And since there isn't hunting allowed, I didn't wear any orange -- instead wore all black (including a hat). Well, between what I was wearing, and my uneven steps, a couple hanging out by the river thought I was a bear! Nah. Just an armchair historian and nature-lover -- who happily filled them in about the history of the area!

#GreenBathing #SpendTimeInNature #MoreGreenTimeLessScreenTime #NaturePreserve #Maine

#Maine - Autumn Adventure Day at #BradburyMountainStatePark

Date: October 25, 2025
Time: 10:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Location: 528 Hallowell Road, #PownalME
State Park: #BradburyMountain
Event Type: #NatureExploration, Special Event

"Join us for a full day of family-friendly fun featuring #LeaveNoTrace principles. Our Autumn Adventure festival will lead you through a wide range of fall activities throughout the entire park. Come experience fall crafts, hands-on learning demonstrations, and guided hikes while practicing minimum impact on the outdoors."

Activities Include:
- 10:00 AM Language of Nature walk to the summit
- A guided 2-hour hike with Maine Guide and Maine Naturalist Jeanne Christy. - 11:00 AM Maine Wilderness and Rescue guided hike and demonstration of mountain rescue at the Quarry
- 12:00 PM Amazing Adaptations presented by the Maine Center for Wildlife.
- 1:00 PM Nature as my Muse presented by the Maine Center for Wildlife
- 3:00 PM Leave No Trace Principles presented by Maine Leave No Trace Advocate Tom O'Brien
- 3:30 PM Leave No Trace Trail of Treats: A self-guided hike through the Seven Principles
- 5:00 PM Fire lightning with hot dogs and s'mores
- 7:00 PM Outdoor movie

Contact Name: The Park
Contact Phone: (207) 688-4712
Website: https://www.maine.gov/dacf/parks/trail_activities/bradbury_trail_conditions.shtml

Cost:
Free with Park Admission: Adult Maine Resident = $4. Adult Non-Resident = $6. Senior Non-Resident = $2. Children 5-11 years = $1. Maine Seniors and Children under 5 are free.

#SolarPunkSunday #MaineParks
#MaineEvents #Maine #Nature #SpendTimeInNature #NatureBasedLearning
#MoreGreenTimeLessScreenTime

#WellsME - Native #NewEngland #Shrubs

Saturday, October 4, 2025,
10:30am – 1:00pm

"Join Boot Boutwell to explore the world of native New England shrubs in autumn!

"Shrubs are a key part of New England landscapes. This program will take a close look at about ten common native New England shrubs, such as high bush blueberry, silky dogwood, sheep laurel, meadowsweet and steeplebush as well as a few non-native invasive shrubs. The program will focus on plant identification as well as fun and interesting #NaturalHistory. We’ll see a plant which colonial Americans used to make candles, a plant whose fruit sea captains used to bring on long voyages to help prevent scurvy, and a plant which the Chippewa used to restore balance in their lives. And as winter is coming and the leaves are going, we’ll also consider some winter identification characteristics. Children ages 10 and up are welcome to register if accompanied by an adult."

Please note: Program fee does not include site admission fee.

Laudholm Members: Free (become a member)
Under 6: Free
Ages 6 to 16: $2
Over 16: $6

Pricing:
Members: $10.00
Non-Members: $13.00

Reservations
Required

FMI and to register:
https://wellsreserve.org/event/77001/native-new-england-shrubs

#SolarPunkSunday #SpendTimeInNature #NaturePreserve #NatureBasedLearning #MoreGreenTimeLessScreenTime #PlantIdentification #Maine #MaineEvents #LaudholmPreserve

#WellsME - Explore the Shore

Discover secrets of the land, sea and beach by exploring the shore!

Tuesday, September 16, 2025
10:00am – 12:00pm

Reservations: Required
Cost: Free

"Though it isn't always obvious the treasures we find on the beach can tell us stories about the land, the ocean and the beach itself.

"While strolling #LaudholmBeach, we will explore the shore through questions about and investigations of sand, the wrack line and found objects.

"Program will start at the Gazebo with a quick introduction to tides before we head down the trail (~15-20 min walk) to the beach.

"Hats, water, sunscreen, and footwear that works both for the trail and beach are recommended.

"Program duration is about 2 hours and ends at the beach."

FMI and to register:
https://wellsreserve.org/event/78067/explore-the-shore

#SolarPunkSunday #NaturePreserve #Maine #MaineEvents #SpendTimeInNature #MoreGreenTimeLessScreenTime

Some much-needed #GreenTime today! I also gathered sand for my wildflower project and some #Sweetfern for smudging (that does well even in a drought)! The meadow, however, was looking pretty parched. We need more rain!

#MoreGreenTimeLessScreenTime #SpendTimeInNature #Maine #Nature #Drought

More students head back to class without one crucial thing: their phones

September 1, 2025

"Some 31 states and the District of Columbia now restrict students' use of cell phones in schools, according to Education Week."

Read more:
https://www.npr.org/2025/09/01/nx-s1-5495531/more-states-now-ban-cell-phones-in-schools

#MoreQualityTimeLessScreenTime #MoreGreenTimeLessScreenTime #LessScreenTime #BeingPresent #SmartphoneAddiction #SolarPunkSunday

#FullMoon Observation & Yoga on #MountBattie

Division / Program: Parks and Lands
Date: September 7, 2025
Time: 7:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Location: Camden Hills State Park, 280 Belfast Road Camden, ME 04843
State Park: Camden Hills
Event Type: Nature Exploration

Arrive at 7:00 p.m. at the summit for yoga with Nicole Lazure, Outdoor Recreation Planner for the Bureau of Parks and Lands, then enjoy the full "Corn" Moon from the top of Mount Battie. The gate will be open until 10:00 p.m. Bring your binoculars and telescopes. This is a self-guided viewing.

Contact Name: The Park
Contact Phone: (207) 236-3109
Cost: Programs are free with park admission. Day use: $1.00 ages 5-11, $4.00 Maine residents age 12-64, $6.00 non residents age 12-64, $2.00 non residents 65+; persons under 5 & Maine residents 65+ free

https://www.maine.gov/dacf/parks/discover_history_explore_nature/activities/eventinfo.shtml?id=13215541

#SolarPunkSunday #LunarPunkSunday #MaineParks #MaineEvents
#Maine #Nature #SpendTimeInNature
#NatureBasedLearning #MoreGreenTimeLessScreenTime

#WikiHow - How to Beat an Addiction to Cell Phones: Tips to Get Off Your Phone

What to do if you think you have a phone addiction

Co-authored by Tiffany Douglass, MA and Aly Rusciano
Last Updated: March 19, 2025

"How do you stop being addicted to your phone?

- Schedule when and how long you can use your phone.
- Turn off notifications for apps and social media.
- Put your phone somewhere you can’t access it.
- Replace phone habits with new hobbies or constructive activities.
- Ask your loved ones for support to keep you accountable."

Learn more:
https://www.wikihow.com/Beat-an-Addiction-to-Cell-Phones

#SolarPunkSunday #TechAddiction #SmartPhoneAddiction #LessScreenTime #SpendTimeInNature #BoardGames #TheLudditeClub #MoreGreenTimeLessScreenTime

#Technology for #Luddites
What Digital Does to Our Brains
April 30, 2015 by kris de decker

via #NoTechMagazine

Illustration by Luis Quiles

"It turns out that digital devices and software are finely tuned to train us to pay attention to them, no matter what else we should be doing. The mechanism, borne out by recent neuroscience studies, is something like this:

- New information creates a rush of dopamine to the brain, a neurotransmitter that makes you feel good.
- The promise of new information compels your brain to seek out that dopamine rush.

"With fMRIs, you can see the brain’s pleasure centres light up with activity when new emails arrive.

"So, every new email you get gives you a little flood of dopamine. Every little flood of dopamine reinforces your brain’s memory that checking email gives a flood of dopamine. And our brains are programmed to seek out things that will give us little floods of dopamine. Further, these patterns of behaviour start creating neural pathways, so that they become unconscious habits: Work on something important, brain itch, check email, dopamine, refresh, dopamine, check Twitter, dopamine, back to work. Over and over, and each time the habit becomes more ingrained in the actual structures of our brains.”

https://www.notechmagazine.com/2015/04/what-digital-does-to-our-brains.html

#SolarPunkSunday #TechAddiction #MoreGreenTime #BoardGames #Gardening #NatureBasedLearning #Greenbathing #TheLudditeClub #NeoLuddites #MoreGreenTimeLessScreenTime

Life Under Logs at #MountBlue State Park

Division / Program: Parks and Lands
Date: August 1, 2025
Time: 11:30 AM - 12:00 PM
Location: 187 Webb Beach Road, #WeldME 04285
State Park: Mt Blue
Event Type: #NatureExploration

"Come join us for this short nature walk, where we will learn about the creatures that make their homes in the dirt and under logs.

"Meet at the nature center. Bring sturdy shoes and bug spray. Children must be accompanied by an adult. This program may be canceled in the case of rain."

Contact Name: The Park
Contact Phone: 207-585-2347
Cost: Programs are free with park admission. Day use: $1.00 ages 5-11, $5.00 Maine residents age 12-64, $7.00 non residents age 12-64, $2.00 non residents 65+; persons under 5 & Maine residents 65+ free

#MaineEvents #MaineForests
#Nature #MoreGreenTime #SolarPunkSunday
#MoreGreenTimeLessScreenTime