Editor's Letter: The Best Classroom Has No Walls

There are always jokes this time of year about parents counting down the days until school starts. Unpopular opinion… I don't feel that way.

Maybe it's because my kids are getting older. Bailey just got her first job, so the fact that she's voluntarily getting out of bed before 2 p.m. feels like a major parenting win. Porter is at that age where he's figuring out who he is, and watching both of my kids embrace their own interests has been one of my favorite parts of this summer.

When Porter told me he wants to be a marine biologist someday, I started looking for activities that matched what already excites him instead of just filling the calendar. Sometimes we overthink summer plans when the truth is there are incredible opportunities right here in our own backyard that aren't tourist attractions at all. They're places where kids can explore what they're passionate about while making friends and creating memories.

Marine Discovery Center Summer Adventure Camps

That search led us to the Marine Discovery Center.

I'll admit, dropping your child off at a camp where they don't know anyone is a little nerve-racking. You hope they're having fun. You hope they're being included. You hope they're being cared for. When I picked Porter up after his first day, he couldn't stop smiling. By day two he jumped in the car and proudly announced, "Mom, I made six new friends and I want to come back next year!"

As I'm writing this, he's starting his second camp there, this one introducing him to outdoor water sports. Sure, we've taken him fishing since he was little and he's been in the ocean his whole life, but there is something special about learning from passionate educators who inspire kids in a completely different way.

This month I wanted to shine a spotlight on an organization that is making a real difference in our community. The Marine Discovery Center sits on a beautiful 22-acre campus (the former NSB High School) on the North Causeway, and it's open seven days a week.

Whether you're looking for a family outing, something educational or just a reason to get outside, they offer hands-on experiences for every age. You can hop on a boat or kayak eco tour, attend one of their free monthly lectures, explore the grounds, climb the 29-foot observation mound overlooking the lagoon or wander through the butterfly garden and natural play area. Even if you only have an hour to spare, it's worth stopping in.

Education, Conservation, and Community

One of my favorite parts is that you don't have to sign up for a big event to enjoy the center. Walk inside and you'll find marine aquariums, touch tanks and educational exhibits that are free to explore. The staff is incredibly knowledgeable and happy to answer questions or help you find a program that's right for you. Everything they do supports their mission of education, conservation and protecting the Indian River Lagoon. From oyster shell recycling through the Shuck & Share program to community composting, volunteer opportunities and wildlife tours, they're making a difference every single day. It's one of those places that reminds you just how special our community really is.

Whether you have kids, love nature or simply want to learn more about the incredible ecosystem we call home, I think you're going to love what the Marine Discovery Center has to offer.