Watching children with fishing rods in hand walking down a sand road shaded by a canopy of live oaks may seem like only nostalgia for many, but here at Brays, it’s a reality.
Having access to a vast, 5,500 acres that includes freshwater ponds, saltwater impoundments, shooting facilities, a golf course and practice area, nature center, pools and playgrounds changes the rules of engagement and takes you back to a time before iPads and flatscreen televisions. The existing infrastructure and institutional knowledge of our staff allow children to investigate all aspects of the outdoors.
Through self-directed outings or planned events like our Kids’ Camps, Brays offers children countless opportunities to live in, learn about and enjoy the outdoors.
“We host an annual event called Kids’ Camp here at Brays Island. The goal is to put together a schedule of educational and fun events for the children and grandchildren of our owners,” said Lauren Wunder-Wester, director of Owner Services. “We stress hands-on, outdoor activities that the kids wouldn’t necessarily get to experience otherwise. We like to center the camp around conservation and understanding how the skills they acquire during our camp are unique and valuable and can only be learned here at Brays.”
So what type of activities did the children enjoy this year?
“We had a shooting instructor from the Gun Club teach basic safety and marksmanship on the rifle range,” said Tara Benton, Owner Services Assistant. “There was an afternoon devoted to learning and playing pickleball. Fishing guides from the Boating Department took the group out and helped them catch redfish. We swam, spent time at the Brays’ garden, hung out with the naturalist. It was a busy few days.”
The on-site naturalist hosted a Junior Naturalist Program that included a tour of Brays’ gardens and instruction on how to grow the fresh fruits and vegetables that are harvested and used by Chef Bryant Withers here at Brays. On the final day of a recent Kids’ Camp, Brays’ dog trainer Scott Miller gave kids a first-hand look at working with the sporting dogs used on the property.
“In the past, we’ve also enjoyed kayaking excursions in the headwaters of the Port Royal Sound. Children have taken horseback riding lessons and learned about horse care. We’ve received instruction on the how-to’s of crabbing and playing golf,” said Benton.
Many parents and grandparents are finding that shepherding the younger generation has become an increasingly difficult task. With so many distractions to contend with, merely getting a child outside can be a feat. But here at Brays, there are still plenty of options that don’t involve a screen.
Take your children back in time. Take them to Brays.