Kids Trade Screens For Streams

COLLEGEDALE, Tenn. (WDEF) – Kids spent part of their summer Wednesday exploring the outdoors during Collegedale Parks and Recreation’s annual “Creek Explorers” program.

Held at Wolftever Creek, the hands-on event gave children the chance to learn more about local waterways and wildlife found in their own backyard.

Organizers said one of the biggest highlights was seeing kids spend time outside and away from screens during the hour-long program.

Participants spotted crawdads, bottom feeders and even a non-venomous water snake while exploring the creek.

Along with observing wildlife, organizers said the program teaches children to return animals to their natural habitat after observing them.

Parks and Rec say Creek Explorers returns each summer as a way to get kids outdoors and explore local waterways.

The next Creek Explorers event will be Thursday, July 30, 2026, from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. for kids ages 5 and older. Registration is required, and confirmed participants will receive an email with meeting information. To learn more or sign up, you can visit their website by pressing here.