Middlesex County Debuts Junior Rangers Program To Connect Kids With Nature

MIDDLESEX COUNTY, NJ - Parents looking for ways to get their children outdoors and engaged with nature have a new option in Middlesex County. The county has launched its Junior Rangers program, a free initiative that transforms local parks into interactive learning environments for children ages 4-10.

The program encourages families to explore Middlesex County's parks and open spaces through hands-on activities designed to teach environmental stewardship and wildlife appreciation. Children who complete five activities from a specially designed booklet will receive a limited-edition Junior Rangers puzzle as recognition for their efforts.

“Middlesex County is proud to foster a love of the outdoors and a sense of environmental responsibility in our youngest residents,” said Middlesex County Commissioner Director Ronald G. Rios. “The Junior Rangers program offers a fun and engaging way for kids to learn about the world around them while enjoying all that our parks have to offer.”

The initiative builds on the success of the county's Bark Rangers program, which encouraged residents to explore parks with their dogs. Like its predecessor, Junior Rangers aims to showcase the unique natural beauty and wildlife that Middlesex County offers.

Getting started is straightforward. Families can request a physical activity booklet to be mailed to their home or download a digital version immediately from the county's website at DiscoverMiddlesex.com/JuniorRangers.

The booklet contains various activities including wildlife observation, litter clean-ups, outdoor games, and educational exercises. All activities are self-guided, allowing families to participate at their own pace and on their own schedule.

Once participants complete any five activities and document their progress as instructed, they can submit proof of completion through an online form. Successful participants will receive their limited-edition puzzle by mail.

The program also includes a social component. Families can join the @MiddlesexCountyJuniorRangers Facebook group to share their discoveries and connect with other participating families.

Commissioner Charles E. Tomaro, Chair of the County's Infrastructure Management Committee, emphasized that the program serves purposes beyond simple recreation.

“This program is more than just outdoor fun—it’s a way to build lifelong habits of health, exploration, and respect for the environment,” Tomaro said. “Thank you to our Parks and Recreation team for continuing to make our parks safe, accessible, and educational for everyone.”

The activities are designed to help children develop an understanding of local ecosystems while building habits of outdoor exploration and environmental responsibility. By engaging with nature in structured but fun ways, participants learn to appreciate and protect the natural spaces in their community.

The puzzle reward is available exclusively to Middlesex County residents while supplies last. However, the program welcomes broader participation—non-residents can download the activity booklet and complete the activities, though they won't be eligible for the prize.

For families who enjoy the Junior Rangers experience, Middlesex County offers additional outdoor programming through its established Bark Rangers initiative, which focuses on dog-friendly park activities. Information about both programs is available on the county's website.

Complete program details, activity guidelines, and submission instructions can be found at DiscoverMiddlesex.com/JuniorRangers. Additional information about the county's parks and recreational opportunities is available at www.middlesexcountynj.gov/parksandrec.

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