Programs for Exploring the Natural World
Nature Study
MONDAY(S) 3:30-4:00pm
February 5 & 19 | March 4 & 18 | April 1, 15, & 29 | May 13
For youth of any age and their families
We'll meet at the family garden pavilion for a short nature walk to find one of our native plants! We will make careful observations, learn some facts and lore, and do a little relaxed sketching. Bring a notebook or paper and some colored pencils. Rain or Shine.
Wondercraft: Snowflake Making
In light of school being out on these days, join us for this wonderful Wondercraft activity! We’ll meet in the Frances Plecker Education Center to share the true story of Snowflake Bentley and take a closer look at the fascinating structure of snow. Then we’ll enjoy making our own paper snowflakes to brighten up a winter wonderland. Whether you’re a beginner or have made entire blizzards before, we’ll have suggestions and instructions to step up your paper snowflake skills!
Arboretum Explorer Camp 2024
For rising 1st through 3rd graders: July 29 - August 2 from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. daily
For rising 4th through 6th graders: August 5 - 9 from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. daily
The Arboretum Explorer Camp is the perfect place for budding naturalists, animal lovers, and young outdoor enthusiasts. With explorations, activities, and crafts thoughtfully curated by arboretum staff this week is designed to help children deepen their friendship with nature! Instructors will include Arboretum staff, JMU students, and local naturalists. This year's theme is Incredible Invertebrates!
Registration will open through the JMU School of Professional and Continuing Education Youth Programs at the end of January.
The Great Backyard Bird Count is Feb. 16-19
FREE, for all ages! We’re excited to join the Cornell Lab of Ornithology for this community science blitz! Participate for 15 minutes or more, from wherever you are—details at www.birdcount.org. Stop by the Frances Plecker Education Center the week of February 12 to pickup a free checklist of local birds you're likely to spot.
The Backpack Program
Pre-School - Elementary
Explore the Arboretum with themed activities! This program is FREE. Backpacks are located in the lobby of the Frances Plecker Education Center, Monday - Friday (8 AM - 4 PM)
How it Works
1. Sign out a backpack of your choice:
- Reptiles & Amphibians
- Flowers
- Exploring Trees
- Forest Mammals
- Butterflies
- Insects
- Macroinvertebrate Study
3. Enjoy the backpack's activities and adventure onward!
Programs Supporting Literacy, Imagination, and the Arts in the Natural World
Storytime in the Understory
Hibernating until Spring
Pre-School - Elementary suggested
Bring a blanket if you like and come enjoy nature-themed reading. We will meet in the At Home in the Woods Family Garden in the Storytime area! In inclement weather, we will meet inside the Frances Plecker Education Center.
Fairy House/Gnome Home Building
Hibernating until Spring
Pre-School - Elementary suggested
Come hear an enchanting story about woodland fairies and build your very own fairy house or gnome home out of natural materials found in the woods!