If you have a 4th grader in your family this year, your child is eligible for a FREE National Park Pass through the Every Kid in a Park initiative. This program encourages families to get outdoors and discover the nation's natural and historical resources, allowing 4th graders AND their families FREE access to National Parks and Monuments for one year.
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Grand Canyon National Park |
Children who are in 4th grade during the 2020-2021 school year (including home-school) can download their passes as of September 1. Fourth-graders were specifically targeted to participate in this initiative because research shows that children ages 9-11 are at a unique developmental stage, during which they are most likely to hold positive attitudes towards nature and the environment. They are understanding the world in more concrete ways, but are also receptive to new ideas. By targeting 4th graders year after year, the Every Kid in a Park initiative allows every child in the U.S. to visit National Parks by the time they are 11 years old.
Yellowstone National Park |
My eldest daughter was in 4th grade in 2015-2016, and we took advantage of the opportunity to visit six National Parks (and one National Monument!) over the course of the year, all for free! My daughter's National Parks pass inspired us to finally take our daughters to the Grand Canyon, and it was the catalyst for a road trip through Utah and Wyoming to visit Canyonlands, Zion, Yellowstone, and more! Last year my youngest daughter was a 4th grader, and we were able to visit Sequoia and King's Canyon National Parks in California over the summer. There are many opportunities to use the pass closer to home as well. Some national parks and landmarks that typically charge fees that are within day's distance from Tucson include Saguaro National Park, Tumacacori National Historic Park, Casa Grande Ruins, and Tonto National Monument.
Do you have a child in 4th grade this school year? If so, your child can download a pass now that will allow your entire family FREE entry to National Parks until August 31, 2021. After downloading the pass, you and your child can plan your next National Park outing using the resources at www.everykidinapark.gov. You can also find some tips about visiting National Parks as a family HERE.  |
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