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Parents, grandparents and children alike enjoy connecting with nature, and a popular youth education program at the Arboretum provide affordable ways for all ages to bond and explore nature together. Wee Naturalists is a hands-on, outdoor learning experience for pre-kindergarten children and their parents, grandparents and caregivers. Every lesson includes age-appropriate activities for ages 3 to 5 (2-year-olds are also welcome) such as nature walks, garden exploration, stories, crafts and visits from our classroom animals. Upcoming programs include: * Birds of a Feather – November 3, 2009: While many birds live in our area year-round, several fly south for the winter months. We'll talk about some of the brightly colored birds that have left or are leaving in search of warmer places and will go on a short hike in search of beautiful warblers that we may find passing through. Make and color a monacular to take along with you on a hike, then use it to study birds where you live! (Additional $2 fee applies for crafts). * Winter Sleepers – November 10, 2009: There's a chill in the air and the leaves have fallen from the trees, which means animals need to prepare for the winter. Join us as we talk about local wild animals that sleep all winter long. We'll head outside to see places that make an ideal den for animals from flying squirrels to black bears, and what foods animals can find in our woodlands to prepare for their long nap. * Wild about Turkeys! – November 17, 2009: This time of year one bird in particular tends to get a lot of attention. Join us as we explore the wonders of wild turkeys - what they eat, how they live, and what those crazy sounds they make are all about. Children will make a craft using real turkey feathers. At only $6 for each child over age 2 (younger siblings and adults may attend free of charge), Wee Naturalists provides a cost-effective opportunity to explore nature as a family. A "Wee Card" may also be purchased at a cost of $20 and is good for 4 visits. Registration not required. Programs begin in Classroom 3 at the Education Center most Tuesdays October - May. The hour-long program begins at 10 a.m. A parent or guardian is required to attend the full duration of the program. All participants should be dressed for an outdoor program. For information, contact Jonathan Marchal, Youth Education Coordinator, at jmarchal@ncarboretum.org or 828.665.2492, ext. 228. For more information, call (828) 665-2492 or visit www.ncarboretum.org. (Image provided by www.ncarboretum.org.)
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