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News

Do your kids love story time and playing outdoors? The Highlands Ranch Backcountry Wilderness Sunshine and Storytime program has expanded!

Douglas County Health Department sponsorship adds additional spots for families to join program free of charge

Posted on August 27, 2025 2025News and EventsPublic Health

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We know that reading aloud to children and spending time outdoors together fosters healthy development by strengthening bonds, building language skills, improving motor abilities, and supporting overall physical well-being.

That’s why your Douglas County Health Department contributed $5,000 to the Highlands Ranch Backcountry Wilderness’ Sunshine and Storytime program. The donation ensures more families can take part in this enriching and free activity. What once served 30 families per week now welcomes up to 90, with year-round programming projected to reach more than 4,500 families in 2025.

Sunshine & Storytime sessions are held weekly at the Backcountry Wilderness Area’s Base Camp:

In early August, Douglas County’s Health Department Director Michael Hill and Assistant Director for Community Health Laura Larson, Ed.M., CLC, joined story time to read “The Hungry Caterpillar” by Eric Carle and praise the program’s role in strengthening both family well-being and community connection.

Each week, the program features a seasonal, nature-themed story, followed by outdoor play in the “Backyard,” where children can explore mud kitchens, natural sandboxes, and hands-on activity stations. Families are invited to stay, play, and connect—with nature and with one another. By building early literacy skills in the youngest residents, the program equips children with the tools they need to thrive in school and beyond. Strong readers grow into strong leaders—and ensuring every child has access to joyful, nature-based storytelling is a step toward a healthier, more connected community for generations to come.

The program remains free and open to all, with donations encouraged to support future growth and ensure equitable access for families across Douglas County and beyond. Learn more about the Douglas County Maternal and Child Health program on our website.

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