Ages 3-8 (Children 5 and under must be accompanied by a caregiver)

Each month features a seasonal theme that ties what is happening in the natural world to children’s stories, poems, the art of observation and inquiry outside, and creative play.  We’ll use seasonal materials found in nature, tie-in to a children’s book (in partnership with Split Rock Books!) to make a project that can continue to inspire you and your child throughout the season. 

SEPTEMBER

Inspired by the poem September by Helen Hunt Jackson (1892), the wildflower guides and the children’s book Flowers are Calling - by Rita Gray & Kenard Pak  available at Split Rock Books - We will use our senses to make observations about collected plant specimens; flower petals at the end of summer, green leaves, seeds, and seed pods. We will press & pound leaves and petals into paper, using smooth stones, and then talk about what the colorful images inspire, to help make up our own poems!  

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Lara Shihab-Eldin is an architectural designer focused on sustainable materials. She recently completed a children’s library space which brings together literacy, play, and ecological design; inspired by the history, landscape, and industry of a Hudson River community. Lara has volunteered for the past 3 years to encourage environmental stewardship and teach outdoor education in her community. She loves teaching and learning with collaborators, outdoor educators, and children, and bringing interdisciplinary design thinking to seasonal, nature-inspired art projects!

Andrea Toscano is an artist and gardener based in Kingston NY. She currently is concentrated on in exploring how nature, art and design intersect through community outreach projects. Promoting sustainability and self-resilience through nature-based art and design projects is the core of her work. She currently assists with an outdoor learning program for children, and is inspired by facilitating hands-on learning to maintain healthy communities!