Taking the Time to Engage in the Natural World
by Margo Ghia- Director of The Nature Museum
I was observing my children catching bugs in the garden the other day and I realized how quickly they are growing up. They are speeding along on their path of growing and learning and I feel as if I haven’t exposed them to the natural world as much as I once dreamed I would.
Everyone assumes that because I work at The Nature Museum, that my own kids must be very knowledgeable in the natural world. I spend a lot of time working with people of all ages and exposing them to the riches that our natural world has. But unfortunately this doesn’t always translate to home. As with many families, it seems like the daily toll of work, school, preparing meals, and more take up all of our limited “free” family time. And yet, I know how important it is to get out, become engaged, and explore new areas and topics.
I have recently made a commitment to myself that I would bring my family to more programs, would take time for exploring new places with them, and would share some of my excitement for the natural world. As a part of this natural world commitment to my family, my older son attended his first Museum preschool camp this summer. He loved it! He is still talking about his time with Betsy and how he wishes he could come to the Museum everyday.
The Nature Museum provides a lot of opportunities for people of all ages to engage in and explore the natural world. This Fall, we are beginning a series called “Exploring Rockingham: The Nature Out Your Back Door.” These programs, offered once a month, will explore different aspects of natural history and all be located throughout Rockingham and surrounding areas. For our younger participants, we have a fall preschool series starting in October. This series will get our youngest learners engaged with the fall forest. We also have a new version of a Valley Quest that leads to a special spot in the Village Park. This new Quest is a great way to get outside, have some fun, and explore a new place. Check out this newsletter for more engaging things the Museum is offering this Fall. And please, if there is something you would ever be interested in, let us know. We are always looking for ideas on how to offer engaging opportunities.
