Hobbies And Interests
Bread
Feeding the ducks is a relaxing way to spend your afternoon and rid yourself of some aging bread. Take some bread crumbs to the pond with you, find a comfortable place to sit and distribute the bread in the water. Ducks and geese should flock over to you in order to eat the bread crumbs. The birds may come up close, but this doesn't mean you should try to touch them. The birds can be a little temperamental as well, so they may try to bite you in order to get their food.
Fishing Wire and Bacon
You would be surprised what you can catch with a little raw bacon. Tie a small piece of bacon to a 3-foot length of fishing wire and let it sit in the creek. This is an effective way to introduce small children to the sport of fishing. It's a lot simpler than using a fishing rod, though. Wait for something to start tugging on the line and pull it to the surface. Release the fish once you get a good look (most of the aquatic life you can catch in a creek isn't worth eating). Let it take the bacon with it as well.
Paper
The gentle waters of a pond or creek create an ideal environment to release paper boats. You need to have a little skill in paper folding to create your miniature vessel. Use a lightweight paper that is biodegradable in case you can't retrieve your boat from the water. Take a small pool skimmer with you as well to help you retrieve the paper vessel. Just because the paper disintegrates after a while doesn't mean you shouldn't do everything in your power to retrieve the vessel and dispose of it in a proper trash receptacle.
Plastic Toys
Plastic is a waterproof substance that can withstand a lot of abuse, so plastic toys are a good source of entertainment around water. Simple plastic toys can submerge, come out safe and dry out in the sun easily. Take inventory of the toys before you head to the water and when you pack up to leave. You don't want to leave your child's favorite toy behind on accident. Avoid toys with electronic components or fur since the water can damage them.