NatureKids – October 2024
This month’s NatureKids theme took flight with a focus on bats—creatures that really know how to “wing it” in the wild! Groups got creative by crafting their own bats using natural materials and investigating the habitats where these animals live, eat, and roost (sleep) with bat frames. Participants had the chance to learn some bat facts and play a game on echolocation called “Bat and Moth.” They also engaged in a game focused on white-nose syndrome, learning about its impact on bat populations.
Grade 2 students from École La Source ventured outside to observe the changes of autumn. They spent the morning exploring their surroundings, and back in the classroom, they crafted projects using the leaves and small pieces of wood they had collected.
The kids at the Cub Club had a great time learning about bats and enjoyed playing the game. They colored their bats, and a few got creative with their designs.
Les Explorateurs at École Sainte-Bernadette had an information session on bats before applying their understanding of echolocation by playing the Bat and Moth game. They played several variations of the game and had a lot of fun. The theme continued in the classroom with reading and comprehension activities on bats, reinforcing the lessons learned.
The Munchkins Afterschool group enjoyed expressing their unique styles and bringing their creations to life with vibrant colors and imaginative designs.
The kids at Munchkins Clubhouse unleashed their creativity in crafting their bats. They enhanced the experience by incorporating picture books into the activity, drawing inspiration from the stories and illustrations.
The kids at Little Cubs Afterschool had a great time collecting leaves and other natural materials for their bat creations, collaborating with their friends and sharing ideas along the way.
Students at Sussex Elementary School had a fantastic time participating in the month’s activities, which included an exciting study on bats.
Students at École des Bâtisseurs enjoyed plenty of time outside this month, thanks to their outdoor education class and teacher. They even had special visits from the Education Team at NatureNB, who ran nature programming.
On Saturday, October 19, the Tucker Park team partnered with the Saint John Newcomers Center to host an event featuring NatureKids activities, where families explored the themes of mushrooms and bats. A total of 29 children and parents participated, embarking on a mushroom scavenger hunt and learning fun facts about bats. The event not only provided an educational experience but also encouraged families, especially newcomers to Canada, to enjoy the outdoors together, with many staying afterward to soak up the sun and explore the park.
Everyone had a fantastic time this month learning about bats, getting creative, and enjoying some refreshing time outdoors. We hope these activities have inspired our young adventurers—and adults alike—to be curious and embrace a love for nature. We can’t wait to hear about all the experiences our groups will have during November’s activities, on the topic of fall and leaves.
You can find October’s activities and resources here.
