Calling all forest friends!

Tuesdays, Nov 5 - Dec 9, 2024 | 9:30 - 10:30am

Ages: 15 months to 5 years, with a caregiver

Join us for a 6-week “Forest Friends” Nature Playgroup, a program designed for families with young children to explore and connect with nature! This program will meet outside, where children can engage in free play, discover the wonders of the natural world, and unleash their creativity through seasonal activities. Your little explorers will leave with new knowledge, friendships, and a deeper appreciation for the environment.

What to Expect:

Free Play Discovery: Children will have the freedom to explore various nature-themed play stations, encouraging curiosity and imaginative play. They'll discover natural materials, climb, dig, and create.

Seasonal Activities & Crafts: Each week, we will introduce a new seasonal activity or craft related to the natural world. From leaf printing to building mini habitats, these hands-on projects will foster creativity and deepen children's connection to nature.

Family Connection: Meet and socialize with other families who share a passion for the outdoors.

Ask an Expert: An Environmental Educator will be on hand to help your little ones foster a love of nature.

Weather Policy: Please come dressed in layers for the weather, as we will try to meet outside rain or shine! In case of inclement weather, the group will meet inside.

Questions? Email: apagnozzi@ssymca.org

Come explore the EcoZone Museum and stay for storytime with an Environmental Educator! The EcoZone at the South Shore YMCA Nature Center features rotating environmental exhibits and seasonal childrens' activities. Children will love the turtles, fish, carnivorous plants, scavenger hunts, and more! EcoZone Exploration is from 9:30-10:30am, allowing for exploration at your own pace. An Environmental Educator will lead storytime at 10:00 AM.

• Please register each child attending.
• Children must be accompanied by an adult at all times.
• Questions: Email skugel@ssymca.org
• South Shore YMCA Nature Center: 48 Jacobs Lane, Norwell, MA

Join us for a family-friendly guided walk!

Guided walks with our Environmental Educators help you explore the beauty of our trail system throughout the seasons. You'll learn about the local ecosystem and unique flora and fauna that call it home. Each walk will conclude with a short craft or activity for children to complete.

After the walk, take your time to further explore our trails and outdoor spaces at your own pace. Pack a picnic to enjoy, but please remember to take all trash with you. Don’t forget to stop by and visit our chickens, red-tailed hawk, and great-horned owl before you leave!

Questions: Email skugel@ssymca.org

Embark on a weekly adventure at the Afterschool Nature Club on Tuesday afternoons! Each week, our afterschool explorers will engage in a different of adventure, from animal tracking and shelter building to survival skills, nature journaling, and eco-art. Perfect for students aged 11-14 (grades 6-8). Please dress in layers for the weather, as we’ll be enjoying both indoor and outdoor experiences. No program Tues, Feb 18.

Questions: Contact Sarah Kugel, Nature Center Director: skugel@ssymca.org

**Additional paperwork will be sent to all registrants to be completed by a parent/guardian. This is due back before the program begins.**

Join an Environmental Educator for a 45 minute guided walk on South Shore YMCA Nature Center trails. While on the walks, our educators may utilize various nature-based apps and resources to gather information about the diverse plants and animals sighted. Come experience the changing seasons and discover what else is happening around the Nature Center!

• 9:30 am – 10:30 am
• Ages 18+
• Free and open to the community

Questions? Contact: Sarah Kugel, Nature Center Director, skugel@ssymca.org

** PLEASE NOTE: This event will be held at Laura's Center for the Arts: 97 Mill St, Hanover, MA 02339**

Tickets are available for timed entry. Please select a time slot (9am, 10am, or 11am) and arrive at the window corresponding to your chosen time.

Come meet Delilah, a life-sized inflatable North Atlantic right whale! Walk through this life-sized whale model and learn about this endangered species and how you can help protect them. Crafts and educational activities will be available.

Children must be accompanied by an adult at all times.  For questions, email Sarah Kugel: skugel@ssymca.org