Slaughter Beach Historical Society

Kids Korner

Welcome to the Slaughter Beach Historical Society (SBHS) Kids Korner!

Redknot

Family Fun at Slaughter Beach!

We are collecting fun and educational activities that children can do with their parents while living or visiting in Slaughter Beach. Please watch this space, as we will periodically add new things to do on the beach, in your homes, or on a short field trip in the area. We encourage any parents or teachers, or KIDS with ideas to send them to us. Any suggestions are welcome.


Got an idea? Send it to us!

Town Park

Renovations Completed November 2023

Thanks to ARPA funds, our park got a major upgrade!

The basketball and tennis courts are freshly resurfaced, and that big tree got a professional trim. Shoutout to the Draper Family for the donated land, now dubbed The Draper Recreational Area. With some TLC from volunteers, the Shockley family’s play equipment is back in action. Kudos to Harry and Bob for their fantastic work!

We’ve also added new play rides, making the park even more enjoyable for families. And check out the attractive blue mulch—it not only looks great but keeps things safe too!

A big thank you to the Fire Company and Chris Hayes for their invaluable assistance in getting everything ready.

Dupont Nature Center

While standing on the beachfront at Slaughter Beach, look to the far north end near the jetty, and you can see the bright red roof!

Operated by the DNREC Division of Fish and Wildlife, this local treasure sits at the convergence of the Mispillion River and Cedar Creek (2992 Lighthouse Road), offering a haven for local wildlife enthusiasts.

Inside, discover captivating exhibits showcasing ospreys, diamondback terrapins, shorebirds, and the revered Horseshoe Crab. Don’t miss the chance for a memorable photo-op at the giant replica of a migrating Redknot bird near the deck entrance, perfect for both adults and kids alike!

In the summer, the DNC buzzes with special activities tailored for children, including seining, scavenger hunts, and Saturday story hours.
Drop by for a schedule or dial 302-422-1329 for more information.

Spring and summer bring added excitement with webcam coverage of an Osprey family nesting nearby and a Harbor Webcam capturing migrating shorebirds feasting on Horseshoe crab eggs.

Birdwatchers flock from around the globe to witness this annual spectacle in May and June. For further details and to access the Webcams, check the website or visit the DNC’s Facebook page.

Seasonal Hours of Operation:

April to September = Open Sat and Wed from 10 am to 4 pm

During the peak summer months of May through August, the center expands its schedule, welcoming visitors Tuesday through Saturday.

October through March = Closed

*Viewing deck remains open year-round for uninterrupted observation.

Kids Activities

It’s Fun to Paint Rocks

1. Collect gray and white smooth rocks and stones on the beach
2. Wash and dry your stones
3. Use acrylic paint to paint your rocks with bright colors, designs, and messages. Let dry overnight.
4. Give as gifts or leave on the beach as surprises for others to find.

Painting Rocks

Story Time at the Beach

1. Observe a horseshoe crab on the beach
2. Read Harry Horseshoe Crab and Crabby and Nabby by Suzanne Tate (both available on Amazon)
3. Plan a trip to the Dupont Nature Center to learn more about these fascinating living fossils.

Rock Skipping on the Delaware Bay

1. Watch a kid-friendly Youtube on rock skipping
2. Fill a bucket with flat rocks or stones
3. Start practicing the art of skipping rocks. It takes patience and practice.
4. Engage a family member for a fun competition!

rock skipping

Nature walk or Scavenger hunt

Did I see a bunny?
Did I see a turtle?
Did I see a butterfly?
Did I see a deer?
Did I see a beach plum bush?
Did I see where the Osprey lives?
Did I see Queen Anne’s lace?
Did I see a cattail?
Did I see a bird? What color is it?
Draw a picture of something you saw

Here’s an example from 1990, when the McFaul family at Primrose Cottage used this with their grandchildren. Or make your own list!

Calendar Contest

Photos must be submitted between May 1st and Sept 1st. Winners will be announced in October. Please review contest rules below, before submitting photos.

Entries must be from residents of Slaughter Beach, homeowners or their visiting friends/family members.

  • All photos must be in digital, high-resolution format and taken in the town of Slaughter Beach.
  • Previously winning photos are not permitted.
  • Photos can be in color or black & white.
  • SBHS reserves the right to crop, revise, or publish photos.
  • Entries can be of architecture, nature, or animals. If people are included it is preferred they are non-identifiable; otherwise a general photo-release waiver must be signed and kept on file.
  • There is a limit of 3 photo submissions per person for consideration. Each entrant is limited to the possibility of one winning photo per calendar year.
  • Three anonymous judges will choose the winning entries.
  • Submissions will remain anonymous to the judges. Judges’ decisions are final.
  • SBHS retains only non-exclusive rights to the pictures submitted to SBHS for the purpose of entry into the calendar contest. Winning photos will include the photographer’s name.