Nature Play SA releases field guide to help families have fun at the beach

IF you thought our beaches have nothing to offer during winter, a new guide will get you thinking again.

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FROM spiral-shaped shark eggs to multi-coloured shells and tangled strands of seaweed, South Australia’s beaches are full of treasures for youngsters to find.

But just what are those squidgy slug-like creatures? How do you avoid a blue-ringed octopus? And is there anything to do at the beach in winter?

These are just a few of the things Nature Play SA wants families to investigate, as they get off the couch and get outside for fresh air and fun.

DISCOVERY: Jason Tyndall, and his daughter Eloise, 3, at Hallett Cove beach. Pictures: TAIT SCHMAAL

The local not-for-profit organisation has published a new field guide for families, called Adventures by the Sea. The 100-page postcard-sized book ­contains 230 watercolour illustrations of local plants, algae and wildlife, 40 activity ideas and more than 50 facts about the coast.

Nature Play SA manager Jason Tyndall said the guide, developed with the help of marine biologists, speech therapists, occupational therapists and park rangers, bridged the gap between fun and science. Its mission is to stimulate creativity and empower families to explore the local environment.

“We know the way kids play today has changed and we’re constantly trying to find a balance between things such as outdoor play, screen-time and structured activities such as sports,” Mr Tyndall said.

The Nature Play SA beach field guide created by Jason Tyndall.

“We wanted it to be fun yet informative, so you’ll find everything from facts about the largest jellyfish and smallest starfish through to information about rare or endangered species such as the Australian sea lion and white-bellied sea eagle.”

Adventures by the Sea will be launched at the World Environment Fair at Adelaide Showground next weekend.

It will also be available at natureplaysa.org.au