United Way introduces Born Learning Trail at Buckhannon Riverwalk for families and children

Buckhannon’s Riverwalk Trail is now home to a new United Way initiative designed to engage young children in fun and educational activities. The Born Learning Trail, a series of 10 interactive signs, provides simple games and activities that encourage learning and exploration.

United Way’s Executive Director, Beckie Sias, described the trail’s activities as a blend of movement and learning, aimed at sparking curiosity among children and families.

“These signs have activities on them for young children and their families to do together,” Sias explained. “They include fun games like hopscotch, identifying flowers, counting, exploring colors and shapes. They guide children to skip, jump and waddle like a duck, make up stories and more. Each sign offers a new adventure for families.”

Sias attended the Buckhannon Consolidated Public Works Board meeting on September 26, requesting permission to install the signs along the Riverwalk Trail, and the board agreed the Riverwalk would be an ideal location for the project due to its accessibility and popularity with families. The Born Learning Trail, funded through a United Way grant, is designed to make learning accessible in a relaxed, outdoor environment. Volunteers play a crucial role in setting up these trails, making it a community-driven project.

This Buckhannon trail joins two existing Born Learning Trails in nearby Lewis County, which are located at Lewis County Park and Jane Lew Park.

“So far, they’ve been very successful,” Sias noted. “We’re thrilled to bring one to Buckhannon, and I think it will bring families closer to nature and give them ways to learn together outdoors.”

The Riverwalk’s new Born Learning Trail is now open for families, providing a unique opportunity for children to learn while having fun along one of Buckhannon’s most popular trails.