Age-appropriate activities are arranged for each camp. These programs offer children an opportunity to explore Newfoundland natural history through nature hikes, exploration, activities, games, crafts and adventures.
A respect for nature and all its “critters” is emphasized. The camps are suitable for children who enjoy exploring nature, getting lots of exercise, being outdoors (no matter what the weather) and who can focus quietly on an activity or craft for a period of time.
While all camps, except camp #9*, follow similar themes (composting, wetlands, etc.), there is seasonal variety from week to week, reflective of the changes in nature throughout the summer. Programs, games and activities are also modified from week to week, according to the grade level of each camp. Therefore, it is important to enroll your child in the appropriate camp, corresponding to his/her grade level completed June 2013.
Programs have been developed at MUN Botanical Garden to present a number of themes in a fun, interactive way, utilizing nature trails, flower gardens, Oxen Pond, indoor and outdoor classrooms, and an outdoor games area.
NEW for 2013! Nature Explorer Camp: August 19-23
Suitable for youth who have completed grades 4-6. Activities may include: a full day nature hike, habitat stewardship, gardening for wildlife, animal and plant care, wilderness safety and survival, wildlife watching, orienteering, backpacking tips and trip preparation, trail etiquette, fun games, picnics and more.
Some Popular Activities Include:
Nature Hikes, Games, Arts & Crafts, Bat Buddies, Snack Time Botany, Dining with Ducks, Get Growing, Down by the Pond, 3R Gardening, Story Time, Trees are Terrific and;
Three Cheers For Composting!:
Composting is a daily activity at each camp. Children feed the worms with their lunch scraps and discover that eating fresh fruits and vegetables is good for everyone, including the environment. The Compost Challenge will continue again this season to determine which camp group can compost the most! Prizes and certificates will be awarded
Wading into Wetlands:
Explore our wetlands and freshwater systems, including Oxen Pond, the rivers and bogs. Be prepared to get wet and meet some of the plants and animals that depend on wetlands and freshwater habitats to survive, including the pitcher plant, our provincial floral emblem.
Biodiversity is Best:
Learn how to make your garden a habitat for wildlife. See how (and why) the Garden grows a variety of plants which, in turn, attracts a variety butterflies, bees, birds and even bats that will help in our garden. Create flowerpots from recyclables, plant seeds and spend some time in our greenhouses and gardens.
Creepy Crawly Critters / Going on a Micro-Hike!:
Investigate the insect world (+ spiders, worms and other critters) in their habitats. Find out why many of these creatures are the Garden's best friends and what we can do to help them.
Fine Feathered Friends:
Dabble with the ducks in Oxen Pond, observe the osprey with a telescope, feed the chickadees and find out how to become a friend to birds.
Forest Fun:
Trees are terrific, but bats are best!!! Get to know our northern boreal forest and its inhabitants. Hike along a nature trail and spot snowshoe hare, grouse, woodpeckers and other forest friends.
