My wife and I have been foster parents for almost eight years. A creative and spectacular place to take kids to is the canal parks in your area (especially if you live in Upstate NY or many other northeastern US states). Even though our own kids usually like going there, I find kids that are in care (state name for foster kids) like it even more, and get so much out of it.

The kids can ride bikes, walk on the canal, fish, and many parts have side areas to hike in. Kids learn of the history of the area, spend some quality time with people that care for them, and get some exercise. In the areas with water still in the canal (some are just grass now-especially in the older sections of the canal), kids can watch boats, kayak if they are older, or explore the locks in some areas.

Kids in care are such a blessing, and really do enhance your life. If you’re a canal enthusiast why not show them something you love, and as bonus hopefully expand their horizons??? In the Syracuse area you can get information on becoming a Foster Parent at https://www.onfostercare.org/ .