The Nature Institute staff love to introduce the natural world to people of all ages. Lately, they have expanded and increased the programs offered for young children. “Meaningful outdoor experiences benefit children and inspire them to love and care for nature. Children who are connected to nature have better health, higher satisfaction with life, and pro-environment behaviors.” (Children & Nature Network)
The Nature Institute is excited to announce it is expanding Tiny Trekkers by adding an additional session. Tiny Trekkers is a weekly nature-based drop off program for ages 3 – 5. Preschoolers will explore our nearly 500 acres of preserve through hands-on experiences in nature. We stomp through creeks, use nets to catch and observe insects, taste edible plants, and learn about the natural world!
One parent comments, “Tiny Trekkers is wonderful. Lauren and Dave have been patient with my daughter as she learns to navigate through things with me. She started in tears and now feels at home there. She talks about TNI and the vultures all the time, and refers to Dave as “Uncle Dave”.”
Tiny Trekkers is a great complement to part time preschool programs, as preparation for entering preschool or kindergarten, or even as an addition to a PreK/K homeschool program. Children must be able to use the restrooms independently.
Sessions take place on Tuesdays, with the morning session running from 9 – 11 am, and the afternoon session from 1 – 3 pm.
The morning session is almost at capacity for the 2024/25 school year, but the afternoon session has several spots still available.
For more information on these events and others, check out our website, www.thenatureinstitute.org, or contact TNI at [email protected] or (618) 466-9930.
