Hooray for Howell Nature Center!

Our annual trip to Howell Nature Center was on Friday, and the children all had a very good time. As usual, the zip line was the overall fan favorite, but the other activities were fun as well. These activities were chosen by me over the summer with our upcoming theme and special projects in mind, and did a great job in sparking interest and excitement.

We first met some birds of prey, including a red tailed hawk, a screech owl (so tiny and cute!), and a bald eagle. We learned a lot about their bodies and adaptations - what makes them such good hunters and strong flyers. This information will be very important as we begin our own raptor studies in November and December as part of our Environmental Super Hero project for Leslie Science Center (more information about that in the future - stay tuned!).

Before lunch we hiked to a big pond where a field research station was set up. Buckets, nets, and identification posters were all there for us to use. Children collected samples and carefully sifted through to see if they could find water insects that lived near the shore. It was lovely, messy work - but don't worry - we washed our hands thoroughly before having lunch!

This activity gave children experience collecting samples and doing outdoor research - all important skills we will be putting into practice this semester as nature explorers.

After lunch, it was time to zip! This wildly anticipated "challenge by choice" activity has become an every year thing. Some children really have to work through their fear to attempt doing it, but are always so happy and proud of themselves if they did. However, no child is ever made to feel  embarrassed if they take a pass. 

Our final activity before the long hike back to the bus was fishing. Lots of nibbles, only two fish were caught (and released) -  but it was a fun experience. Many of the children expressed interest in trying their hand at fishing again.

Many, many thanks go to Caroline, Griffin, and Elizabeth (who even rode the bus with me!). These three parents helped keep everyone safe, calm, and collected. They baited hooks, untangled fishing lines, sifted through pond goo, helped with all the gear - getting 11 wiggly excited bodies into zip-lining gear isn't easy! -  and made sure each child got from point A to point B. If you see one of these brave women around, given 'em a hug or a high five.