Talk a Walk Through a Book on the Garden’s Pollinator Pathway
School is out for the summer, and caregivers are always looking for fun activities to keep kids happy, busy–and learning. One suggestion from the Garden’s family education team: go on a StoryWalk®. “In a StoryWalk, the pages of a book are placed along a pathway to propel the reader along,” says Early Childhood Program Manager Cheryl Potemkin. “It makes reading an active experience involving movement, attention and reflection.”
Turn to Nature to Support Mental Health in Children
May is Mental Health Awareness Month, when Americans are urged to recognize the toll of mental illness, fight stigma and advocate for better support for the millions of people affected. One increasingly important area of focus: Children. Mental illness among children is caused by a bewildering array of factors, but no matter the exact situation, parents and other caregivers can adopt one simple strategy to buttress the mental health of the children and adolescents they love. They can foster a connection to nature.
Better Know Your Bugs with These Fun Family Activities
Kids love bugs! Whether creeping, crawling, fluttering or flying, insects are fascinating—and they’re a great opportunity to learn about the natural world as a family. ith Butterflies in the Garden on-going and David Rogers’ Big Bugs opening this month, now is a great time to interest your family in insects with some great books and easy home activities.
Celebrate Butterflies in the Garden as a Family with these At-Home Activities
Children find butterflies magical. The fluttering wings and brilliant colors bewitch kids of all ages—and adults are hardly immune! If your family plans a trip to see the butterflies this spring, make the experience last and add a little STEM learning to the fun with activities from our education staff.
From Finding Birds to Rediscovering Creeks, Enjoy Reading One of These Nature Books as a Family
It may be cold and gray outside, but inside you and your family can explore the green, buzzing world of nature through a great book. FWBG | BRIT educators are always looking for great titles to share with readers of all ages—following is a selection of some of our favorites. They are all books that will plant seeds of literacy, STEM skills and love of the natural world.
Explore the Role of Plants in Holiday Celebrations with These Family Crafts and Activities
Plants are everywhere during the holidays. Many Christian and secular families trim Christmas trees and hang wreaths. Jewish families bring home arrangements of blue and white flowers—delphiniums and lilies are favorites. This season creates an opportunity for your family to explore the role of plants both in our holiday celebrations and in our everyday lives.