Contact: Rebecca Malena
Tel. 412.255.0564 ext. 29
rmalena@ventureoutdoors.org
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

BABIES TAKE STEPS INTO THE OUTDOORS
Venture Outdoors offers Tyke Hikes for Newborns and Toddlers
(Pittsburgh, PA – July 31, 2007) How does Venture Outdoors suggest people get involved in outdoor activities?
Take baby steps.

The youngest participants in Venture Outdoors activities are doing just that by attending Tyke Hikes, held once a week until the end of October. The next Tyke Hike will be held next Tuesday, August 7.

The hour and a half walk through Schenley Park is a new and fun activity for a newborn to 5-year-old. The hikes run through gravel trails, which are stroller friendly, and are a great way to introduce young ones to the outdoors.

Children will learn the possibilities of recreation outside as they look at leaves, touch the trees, listen for birds and critters and possibility spot living things in the water. Parents will also recognize the outdoors environment as a learning tool as children point out birds, mimic sounds and pick up and feel nature’s shapes, colors and textures. As a form of social interaction, the children will have plenty of time to talk with baby sounds, tiny voices and giggles.

The ever-popular Tyke Hike is a way to interact with mom and dad. It’s a way for parents to spend needed fun and relaxation time with their children as well as interact with other parent participants.

The hikes begin at Schenley Park Café in Oakland. There will be a short snack time after the hike. Strollers must be able to maneuver “off road” on a crushed gravel surface, and children should wear tennis sneakers. The hikes will continue at scheduled times, weather permitting. The cost is $4 for both Venture Outdoors members and non-members.

Tyke Hike Schedule:
Tuesdays - August 7, 14, 21, 28; September 4, 11, 18, 25; October 2, 9, 16, 23, 30
Location: Schenley Park Café
Time: 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
Cost: $4.00

Those interested in registering for any of the Tyke Hikes, or for any events, need only call the Venture Outdoors office at 412.255.0564 or visit the Web site, where there is a complete listing of programs, at www.ventureoutdoors.org.

Venture Outdoors, a non-profit organization, seeks to transform the Pittsburgh region into a place where the outdoors is an integral part of our culture, identity and lifestyle. Venture Outdoors does this by increasing participation in outdoor recreational activity. This in turn creates a sense of community among participants, an increased awareness of the region’s excellent quality of life, and a better understanding of and deeper appreciation for the environment and wilderness among the residents of and visitors to western Pennsylvania.

For more information, visit www.ventureoutdoors.org or call 412.255.0564.

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