Monthly Fun Fact!

Did you know that arthropods are the most numerous and diverse animal groups which includes insects, spiders, crustaceans, and their kin?! 

More than 80% of all animal life on Earth is some type of arthropod. Arthropods vary in shape, size, and function. Due to their typical small size, and often ability to fly, they are able to inhabit even the most harsh environments. Sibley Nature Center encourages you and your family to take a step out into the garden, or along the Sibley trails, and see what types of arthropods you can spot! 

Craft of the Month

Painting with Nature!

Here at Sibley we try to do "upcycle" crafts as much as possible. They help reduce the materials needed, and also teach an important lesson in the 3 R's: reduce, reuse, recycle!

This month's activity is "painting with nature"! This craft is so much fun to do, and takes very little supplies. It also encourages children to think outside of the box on what nature items around the house they could use to paint with! 

Materials:

  • Sticks (1 for each paint brush)
  • Lots of interesting pieces of nature
  • Elastic bands (or string)
  • Poster paint
  • Large roll of paper

For how to make your paintbrushes, and more tips when painting with nature, visit HERE!


Looking for something fun to do outside? Below you'll find some helpful tips for Bird watching, a list of fun activities to do outside, and more!

Go Outside & Play

Animals

Look for animal tracks in the mud
Count the number of butterflies you see
Take a walk and try to identify the birds in your area
Go to the Duck Pond and practice your best duck call
Study the bark of a tree with a magnifying glass and see what might be living inside the tree
Go outside and sit quietly, listen for animal sounds
Flip over rocks and search for lizards
Practice Backyard Birding

Art

Make nature art with things you found in your backyard
Do Sibley Nature Center's Scavenger Hunt
Find five leaves that are different colors or shapes
Make a leaf print using rocks & paint
Plant a seed and watch it grow
Play in the dirt! Make mud pies!

Outdoors

Visit our trails! 
Learn how to use binoculars 
Explore Hogan Park 
Take your dog to Hogan Dog Park 
Play I SPY using only clues that describe nature