Week 1July 19Week 1 is all about investigation! Wethersfield has pastures for grazing, plants that feed animals, plants that feed people, and plants that feed each other. Our trees act as homes to plants, insects, animals and fungi. Our wetlands and ponds are home to plants and animals too! Students will learn to see the "big picture" and end the session by making by a colorful map to take home.
Week 2July 26Week 2 is all about pastures! Did you know that grass helps us and the environment to stay healthy? Have you ever wondered what sneaky creatures live in the grass? There are insects who live in the grass and birds who make their nests in the grass. Do you know who they are? Some animals even have four chambers in their stomach in order to digest grass! Together, we will look at different perennial grasses...each so beautiful and different. Students will end the session by making a pasture bouquet to take home.
Week 3August 2Week 3 is all about nature's bounty! It’s August and Wethersfield is full of edible plants, flowers, and berries. What plants can we find and who else is eating them? How can you spot edible plants? What do they taste and smell like? Together we will go on a culinary tour of Wethersfield! Students will end the session with a delicious cooking project!
Week 4August 9Week 4 is all about trees! Some are small and some are big. Some are old and some are young. What can we learn from looking at the trees? Does anyone live in the trees? Trees give us a gift everyday- do you know what it is? Students will end the session with a surprise craft made from harvested branches.
Week 5August 16Week 5 is all about wetlands and ponds! Wethersfield is full of water- what can we find living beneath the surface or along the water's edge? Students will study water lilies and other aquatic plants, comparing them to plants that grow in much drier soil. We will also search for insects and amphibians to study. Students will end the session by sitting down and making their own mini water terrariums to take home.
Week 7August 30Week 7 is all about art at Wethersfield! Many artists have been inspired by this land. Let's look at examples- there are crafts, fine art. theater, and dance to explore. Each student will receive a child-sized notebook and drawing utensil before departing on a artistic adventure. Together, we will channel our inner artists as we will walk around the property searching for inspiration and drawing opportunities!
