Kindergarten June Program at Abbey Gardens

As the school year winds down, kindergarten students are bubbling with excitement for summer adventures. The Kindergarten June Program at Abbey Gardens provides a wonderful chance for these young learners to discover nature in a fun and engaging way. This program is filled with activities designed to spark curiosity and foster a love for the outdoors. Parents can look forward to a day packed with exploration and education.

Program Overview

This year, Abbey Gardens anticipates approximately 80 enthusiastic participants. The estimated cost for each student falls between $15.00 and $18.00, making it an affordable option for families. Importantly, teachers and adult supervisors can attend for free, encouraging maximum involvement from educators and guardians alike.

The adventure begins at 9:30 AM when students arrive for welcome introductions and a quick washroom break. The day kicks off with a Nature Scramble—a scavenger hunt that immerses children in the wonders of nature. This activity not only sets an upbeat tone but also ignites their curiosity about the environment.

Morning Activities

After an energizing start, students will gather for a snack break at 10:15 AM. Abbey Gardens offers snacks, but students are also welcome to bring their favorites. After recharging, children will split into three groups—A, B, and C—to rotate through engaging activities from 11:00 AM to 12:15 PM.

Group A: Be a Tree

In the Be a Tree session, students will embark on a Walking Interactive Tree Story. They'll engage with trees and learn about their vital role in our ecosystem. This session not only educates but also encourages them to move and connect physically with nature. For example, children might mimic the growth of trees, understanding how they reach toward sunlight.

Group B: Wonderful Butterflies/Pollinators

Group B dives into the fascinating world of butterflies and pollinators. Through an interactive Butterfly Game, they will discover the crucial roles these creatures play in our food systems—over 75% of flowering plants rely on pollinators for reproduction. Students will also plant a pollinator seed to take home, creating a living reminder of their day and their new knowledge.

Group C: Ponies & Enchanted Forest

Group C will embark on a journey to learn about the Ojibwe Horses, exploring their historical significance and connection to nature. They will get to meet ponies up close and enjoy free play in the Enchanted Forest, where they can let their imaginations come alive through creativity and exploration.

Lunchtime and Afternoon Rotations

Following the morning’s activities, students will enjoy lunch from 11:45 AM to 12:15 PM. Each child must bring their own lunch to keep their energy up for an exciting afternoon.

The afternoon activities run from 12:15 PM to 2:00 PM, mirroring the morning’s structure. Children will rotate groups to experience all the wonderful programs. For instance, those who participated in Group B will now explore the Be a Tree session, while Group A will enjoy the Wonderful Butterflies/Pollinators program. This rotation ensures that every student enjoys the full spectrum of opportunities Abbey Gardens offers.

Interactive Learning Experience

A standout feature of the day is the hands-on approach to learning. Each activity aims to not only impart knowledge but to involve the children directly. Storytelling, interactive games, and real-life nature interactions engage all of the senses, making the learning experience memorable and enjoyable.

The scavenger hunt and thematic sessions also encourage teamwork and communication, allowing children to collaborate and share their discoveries with friends. For example, as they search for specific leaves or flowers during the Nature Scramble, students learn to help each other identify their finds.

Importance of Nature Education

Programs like this are vital in a time when children often spend more time with screens than in nature. The Kindergarten June Program at Abbey Gardens highlights outdoor learning and environmental stewardship. By building connections with the natural world at a young age, children develop a lasting appreciation for the environment.

Moreover, engaging in physical activities benefits their overall health. Active play is essential for children’s development, helping them build gross motor skills while having fun outside.

A Day of Learning and Fun

The Kindergarten June Program at Abbey Gardens is more than just an enjoyable outing; it's a chance for kids to ignite their curiosity and develop a passion for nature. Through diverse and engaging activities, they gain insights into the environment while enhancing critical social skills.

With creatively designed programs tailored to their interests, children leave Abbey Gardens not just with fond memories, but also with valuable knowledge they will carry into the future. The day concludes at 2:00 PM, leaving participants eager for more outdoor adventures.

As the program date approaches, parents and educators can look forward to a wonderful day filled with laughter, learning, and new friendships. Join Abbey Gardens in nurturing the next generation of nature enthusiasts and responsible environmental stewards!

Download Information Package

For more information or to book your class visit, contact our Education Coordinator at irene@abbeygardens.ca or call (705) 754-4769.

Abbey Gardens is a not-for-profit charity providing economic and recreational opportunities for our community. Everything we do on site helps further our mission to create opportunities to learn about living more sustainably. Located just 10 minutes from the village of Haliburton at 1012 Garden Gate Drive, Abbey Gardens welcomes visitors year-round