Weedon Island welcomes Lighthouse of Pinellas for Immersive Nature Day

Visually impaired youth will connect with natural and cultural wonders

Lighthouse of Pinellas, in collaboration with Friends of Weedon Island and Florida Sea Grant, will host a hands-on nature exploration event for children who are blind or visually impaired at the Weedon Island Preserve Cultural and Natural History Center, 1800 Weedon Drive NE, on Friday, June 13, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Each link provides more information about the organizations and their future programs.

The event will offer participants immersive activities designed to engage their senses and foster a deeper connection with the natural world.

“Weedon Island Preserve offers a unique environment where children can engage all their senses to connect with nature,” said Liz Childress, education outreach supervisor at the preserve. “Participants gain a deeper understanding and appreciation of the natural world by touching animal pelts, listening to bird calls and exploring archaeological artifacts.”

Children will partake in activities such as seine-netting in Tampa Bay, tactile exploration of archaeological artifacts and sensory interaction with native plant textures and animal pelts. These experiences promote confidence, independence and a closer connection to nature.

The initiative is supported by a grant from the REI Cooperative Action Fund, awarded to Friends of Weedon Island to improve the health and well-being of people and communities through time spent outside. The grant will contribute to the addition of braille signage at the center’s exhibits.

Weedon Island Preserve, a 3,190-acre natural area managed by Pinellas County, offers diverse ecosystems and a rich cultural history. The preserve features ADA-accessible boardwalks and trails, providing an ideal setting for educational programs. For more information about Weedon Island Preserve and its programs, visit www.pinellas.gov/weedon.