TurfMutt Foundation Launches Free Educational Resources to Combat Summer Slide for Kids

As schools close for summer, the TurfMutt Foundation steps up to help parents, educators, and caregivers tackle the pressing issue of summer learning loss, often referred to as the "summer slide." Recognizing the necessity of keeping children's minds engaged during the break, the foundation offers a free comprehensive curriculum designed for grades K-8. This initiative is not just about preventing setbacks in education; it aims to weave environmental awareness into learning through fun, engaging resources.

Emphasizing Environmental Education

The TurfMutt curriculum is packed with colorful and creative resources that incorporate STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) concepts. By featuring popular cartoon characters like TurfMutt, the foundation captures the interest of young learners, making educational activities enjoyable. The program can easily be integrated into summer camps, home learning experiences, and community outreach programs.

Kris Kiser, President and CEO of the TurfMutt Foundation, emphasizes the significance of the summer months for children's academic success. "These weeks are crucial for keeping the learning momentum going. When kids explore nature and engage with our curriculum, they're not just having fun—they're developing critical thinking skills," he explains. This learning approach ties in with the foundation's long-standing commitment to promoting the maintenance and appreciation of green spaces.

Real-World Learning Opportunities

One exemplary outdoor learning environment is the PlayPort at Louisville's Waterfront Park, where kids can interact with nature while learning. The PlayPort showcases innovative playground structures themed around the cultural heritage of the Ohio River, enriched by expansive green spaces that invite exploration. Kiser remarks, "Children are naturally curious, and places like the PlayPort offer them hands-on opportunities to observe and experiment, reinforcing the principles we're teaching through the curriculum. This is truly the power of parks in action."

Curriculum Accessibility and Resources

Parents and educators interested in the TurfMutt resources can download the lesson plans from the TurfMutt website or the USGBC Learning Lab. These materials not only provide engaging activities but also offer insights from the TurfMutt International Backyarding Fact Book, showcasing the importance of parks and green spaces in our lives. Engaging with this curriculum helps children understand their environment better and fosters a sense of responsibility toward nature.

Additionally, the foundation encourages families to subscribe to "Mutt Mail," the monthly newsletter packed with practical tips on backyarding, gardening, and other environmentally friendly practices, along with updates on the foundation’s activities.

Advocacy Beyond Education

The TurfMutt Foundation, which celebrated its 15th anniversary in 2024, has significantly impacted over 70 million children and families since its inception. Collaborating with esteemed educational partners, including Scholastic and Discovery, the foundation has developed programs that teach children to take care of our planet in accessible, relatable ways. Through its mascot, Mulligan the TurfMutt, the foundation communicates the message of environmental stewardship effectively.

Recognized as a U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) Education Partner, TurfMutt is involved with various educational initiatives run by government agencies such as the Department of Education and the Environmental Protection Agency. Furthermore, in 2024, as part of a $1 million sponsorship, the Great Lawn at Waterfront Park was renamed the TurfMutt Foundation Great Lawn, highlighting the organization's commitment to enhancing public green spaces.

This summer, as families embark on various outdoor adventures, integrating TurfMutt's educational resources can help ensure that children's learning continues to flourish. Enjoying time in parks and nature not only combats the summer slide but also nurtures a love for the environment that could last a lifetime.