WAYNESBORO, Pa. — Summer fun for kids is on tap with a new EXPLORE! program series from Buttonwood Nature Center. Designed for kids in grades K to 5, the programs will run on four Wednesdays — July 8, 15, 22 and 29 — from 10 to 11:30 a.m. at Pine Hill Recreation Area near Waynesboro.
All program activities are outside. Taught by Buttonwood educators, each program includes educational activities related to the season.
The four programs are:
Wednesday, July 8
Insect Investigations
Did you know a bug is different from an insect? Kids will go on a hike to look for insects and record what they see in nature journals. They will also create their own insects and build “bug hotels” that participants can take home to hang in their yard!
Wednesday, July 15
Basics of Birding
Join a Buttonwood naturalist to learn about the wonders of birdwatching! Kids will learn how to focus binoculars, keep a field journal, and identify bird songs. There will be a short activity to practice using binoculars, followed by a bird walk and a fun craft.
Wednesday, July 22
Fun with Fairy Houses
Join Buttonwood educators in foraging for natural materials such as leaves and twigs to build fairy houses. We’ll also read a story, build fairy houses and stretch our imaginations while we spend time in nature.
Wednesday, July 29
Painting with Nature
Nature is beautiful to look at, but did you know it can also be used to create beautiful artwork? Kids will go on a hike to find natural items that they will then use to make art. The only catch — no paintbrushes!
Pre-registration and payment in advance is required. Register for any or all of the individual sessions. The fee is $8 for Buttonwood members and $10 for the general public, per child, per program. Limit: 15 children per program.
Register online at www.buttonwoodnaturecenter.org. For more information, email Buttonwood at [email protected] or call 717-762-0373.
These programs are sponsored by Buttonwood’s Today’s Horizon Fund Contributors: The Nora Roberts Foundation; Mary Marshall Buckey in memory of her parents, the late George and Marty Buckey; Marge Kiersz; Don Gibe and Nancy Erlanson; and the family of the late Carolyn Terry Eddy, with daughters Connie Fleagle & Kim Larkin. Facility support courtesy of Washington Township.
