The Arboretum�s Wee Naturalist Program is a unique early childhood hands-on learning experience that helps children ages 2 to 4 develop motor and conceptual skills by doing what they enjoy most�playing, exploring, creating, and doing.

And in 2010, families spent more than 120 hours at the Arboretum to gain an appreciation of and explore the natural world. The 2011 season kicked off to a promising start in January, and continues to inspire budding naturalists.

Children Pre-K and below, along with a parent, caregiver or grandparent can join an Arboretum Naturalist to explore a new nature-filled theme every month. Learn about trees, plants, birds, bears, raindrops and more. Along with learning, each day may include a physical activity, singing, art time, stories, theater and short nature walks weather permitting.

The program is a learning classroom for young children to discover, imagine, and investigate the world around them, but it is also a one-of-a-kind learning experience for parents as teachers. Caregivers are taught ways to encourage and stimulate their child�s growth. Core lessons taught include:

• How to respect and appreciate nature by learning how actions directly affect the world.
• The basics of cooperation through exploration and adventure while in the out-of-doors.
• Beginning math principles through activities such as weighing, comparing, counting, and sorting.
• Basic knowledge about the diverse flora and fauna of the Western North Carolina region. Classes are offered Monday and Tuesday mornings from 9 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. The program fee is $6 per class or $20 for four sessions. To register or for more information, call 828-665-2492.

  For more information, call (828) 665-2492 or visit www.ncarboretum.org.

  (Image provided by the NC Arboretum.)

  
  
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