In today’s world, interacting with the outdoors can fall to the wayside in favor of television, iPads, PlayStations…the list goes on.

However, studies show that being outside for just 15 minutes every day can have lasting health benefits for the whole family. Additionally, teaching children about the environment can help to promote lifelong sustainable practices that make the world a better place for everyone. 

Audubon Louisiana Nature Center, located in New Orleans East, provides the perfect setting for people of all ages to enjoy the outdoors while also learning something new.

Hurricane Katrina flooded the facility in 2005, but Audubon was committed to bringing this facility back to the community and it reopened in October 2017 with modern buildings, beautiful nature trails, and many new programs celebrating the wonders of the natural world.

 

 

Here’s our top benefits of getting outdoors at Audubon Louisiana Nature Center!

Energy Boost

Studies suggest that spending 20 minutes in the open air gives your brain an energy boost comparable to one cup of coffee! Head to the boardwalk trail for a short exploration of NOLA’s unique forest ecosystem.

Encourage Curiosity

When children have the opportunity to learn about the natural world and its complexities, their minds expand exponentially. Enjoy a trip to the Planetarium to provide your child with a first-hand look into the mysteries of space exploration.

Stimulate the Senses

One of the best ways to engage all five senses is to get outside. Audubon Zoo, Audubon Aquarium of the Americas, and Audubon Louisiana Nature Center offer “Sensory Sundays” designed for guests who benefit from calmer environments and hands-on sensory activities.

Holistic Health

Gardening is shown to improve strength, flexibility, lower blood pressure, and elevate your mood. Get your little one involved in this healthy hobby at the Kinder-Garden, a hands-on space for children to explore the benefits of growing and eating nutritious food.

Go Green

Every program that Audubon Louisiana Nature Institute provides furthers their mission of conservation. Visiting the Audubon Louisiana Nature Center helps to instill in visitors an appreciation for the natural world so that together we can make a difference. The Nature Center provides children with tangible ways they can practice conservation, such as recycling soda cans or reducing the use of single-use plastics.

 

 

Stay Tuned… Beginning in 2019, Audubon Louisiana Nature Center will offer even more educational opportunities for everyone to enjoy like community gardens, nature-themed festivals, service-learning programs, and a farmers market!