Sera Lake Children Orienteering Experience

Treasure Hunt in Nature is Starting at Sera Lake

Although Sera Lake is very close to the city center of {SEHIR}, it opens the door to a completely different world and is the scene of the orienteering experience we have specially prepared for children. The lush and humid forest of the Black Sea, the flat walking path surrounding the lake, and the light filtering through the trees give children between the ages of 7 and 12 the opportunity to explore nature like a playground. We describe this event to children as a treasure hunt in nature. With a small map in their hands, a simple compass around their necks, and control cards in their pockets, they set out to find the orange-white control flags placed in the forest. During the approximately two-hour program, a guide is with each group, and no child is left out of sight.

The biggest advantage of Sera Lake is that the path around the lake is almost completely flat. This allows us to keep our routes short, and children can advance without getting tired and use their energy to find their way. Since there is plenty of shade, we work in a cool environment even on hot days. The Black Sea weather can sometimes bring surprise rains; therefore, our plan is flexible. If it starts raining, we shorten the route, move to sheltered areas under the trees, and continue the game with map-reading activities.

Map, Compass, and Control Card: Explained in a Child-Friendly Way

We start the event not with technical terms but with a game. Our guide lays out the map on the ground and shows the children: green areas represent trees, the blue line represents the lake, and brown lines represent elevated terrain. Then, everyone turns their map north and together we discover why the red tip of the compass always points in the same direction. The logic of the control flag is simple: each flag has a sign next to it, the child marks that sign on their control card, and runs to the next point. As the card fills up, the excitement grows, because each box is a small achievement.

We keep our groups small so that each child can hold the map and make their own decision. Even going in the wrong direction is educational in this game. Instead of giving the answer directly, our guide asks questions and allows the child to correct themselves. These small moments nurture the child's sense of direction, courage to make decisions, and self-confidence. The smile at the end of the two hours spent away from the screen is the best feedback.

Information and Registration for Parents

It is sufficient for participants to bring closed-toe sports shoes, a water bottle, and a hat. Due to the humid weather of Sera Lake, we also recommend bringing a lightweight raincoat or a spare t-shirt. We provide the map, compass, and control card. Parents can either accompany the group or wait in the seating areas by the lake. Throughout the event, we stay within defined boundaries and our guides repeat the safety rules with the children at the beginning. Respecting nature is also part of the event: we do not litter, do not disturb the wildlife, and do not leave the trail. You can register your child for this enjoyable morning where they will become friends with nature.