On Wednesday morning, families with children or siblings who have autism spectrum disorder shared a fun family time with parents, grandparents and aides at the Chestnuthill Township Park, thanks to a grant from ESSA Bank.

Evelyn Barone, sister of group member Katherine Barone, led a nature walk through the park.

Barone, who has extensive knowledge of the flora and fauna of the park, made learning fun for everyone.

The group was encouraged to touch the different bark textures on the trees and to hear the names of all the different trees and plants, and to ask questions, while keeping their eyes peeled for signs of little critters that make the park their home.

After the walk, the group went back to the pavilion to eat their lunch and to work on making bird feeders and leaf rubbings, or to play in the park on the swings, slides and in the sandbox.