My “Little Farmer” at the Stamford Museum and Nature Center

For the past 8 weeks, my almost 2-year old daughter and I have taken an adorable, not to mention fun, art and nature class at the Stamford Museum & Nature Center. I was lucky to find out about “Little Farmers” just one week before SM&NC’s fall session began, and of course, signed us up!

Here are some examples of nature-themed crafts and activities that we’ve done:

– Corn: First, our teacher had Flint corn for the children to see and feel. Then, we sponge painted corn-shaped paper cut-outs, and ripped strips of newspaper and glued it to make the stalk. After the craft, we headed out to the garden for the children to walk thru the corn. Last, we headed over to the chicken coop for the children to toss corn in and feed the chickens.

– Squirrels: First, we made squirrel “hats”; we decorated the pre-cut squirrel face and tail, and ripped gray construction paper to decorate the sides of the hat. Then, we went for a walk, including on “Chippy’s Trail”, to look for squirrels (and chipmunks) and collect acorns.

– Pumpkins: First, our teacher read a story about a pumpkin.  Then, we made paper plate jack o’ lanterns on a construction paper gate, with a glittery night sky.  Last, our teacher taught us the “Five Little Pumpkins” poem (and I think I’ve recited it at least 100 times since then!).

The best part is that because the activities are based on the season (including any holidays), we’ll be able to sign up for the winter session and enjoy eight new crafts and activities!

Want more information about their upcoming winter session of classes?  Here you go!

· Classes will be offered five days a week, at two different time slots (10-10:45 and 11-11:45). Which day/time slot(s) your child is eligible for, will depend on your child’s age (18-24 mos., 2 yrs., 2+ yrs.). Each class has a minimum of 5 and maximum of 7 children.
· Classes begin the week of Monday, January 26th.
· Open registration (no membership required) begins Wednesday, December 10th.
· Registration for Family PLUS and Director’s Circle Members begins Monday, December 8th.
· Class fees are $130 for non-members and $110 for members.
· Worried about winter weather?  If the Stamford Public Schools are closed, SM&NC will be closed, and make-up classes will be scheduled.