We want to connect you with resources in your region that will help you and your family Play, Explore and Learn in nature. This page has useful links to things like curriculum, training opportunities, and tangible resources like gear or equipment. These resources come from our partners and are not an endorsement by TCiN or Nature Rocks Texas, but simply meant to be helpful to families.

Explore nature around you using iNaturalist and upload images of what you find.  Identify what you can and watch scientists help identify what you don't know.  This is a great opportunity to help conservationalists learn what species are in your neighborhood.

Looking for science lessons that are focused on aquatic life and ecosystems in Texas instead of some far away place? Texas Aquatic Science is designed for students to learn about the ponds, lakes, marshes, streams, rivers, oceans and wildlife that are in our own communities.  It also has lessons about what types of careers are availble to young people in the aquatic science field. This curriculum is free and open to the public to use.

There are tons of Educational Loaner Trunks availble all around the state from Texas Wildlife Association, Texas Parks and Wildlife, National Parks, and other non-profits. These trunks are available for loan to formal and informal educators, and youth leaders. Each trunk contains activities and materials appropriate for multiple age level groups. Contact information for obtaining each trunk is listed on the Texas Parks and Wildlife website.

Texas Parks and Wildlife offers tackle for fishing at multiple sites around the state.  You simply check out the tackle like you would a library book and return it when you are done.  Also when you are fishing in a state park, you do not need a fishing license, but you do need to follow the fishing guidelines for size and limits. Find out which state parks have the tackle loaner program near you.