As the weather turns nicer and people start to feel the urge to emerge from their pandemic cocoons, parents, grandparents and caregivers may be looking for creative ways to take the fun and learning outdoors.

ORDER UP: For Zoe Bumgarner Harris, all-natural earth burgers, dirt cakes and mud pies are on the menu. (Photo courtesy of Barbara Reynolds)

While the vaccine rollout is still underway, continue to wear masks and observe social distancing in public spaces, even outside – and remember, wearing a mask is not a self-protection measure, it’s a courtesy to others who may not yet be immunized.

Barbara Reynolds of Manahawkin is a member of the Stafford Township Green Team and an avid environmentalist.