The goal of this program is to get kids back outdoors while using their imagination and creativity to care for nature, create projects using simple materials, garden, and prepare no-cook foods. Gathering at the Swift River pavilion, we will do simple hands-on science projects, grow plants, follow no-cook recipes, craft, and learn basic skills to be prepared and resourceful.
June - Make first aid kits and learn some basic first aid, make and use a compass, combine ingredients to make your own trail mix and energy bars, make solar oven s'mores, relax in a camping tent, work in the school garden, and cool off under the sprinkler.
July - Craft miniature cabins with sticks, make an insect viewer, collect some insects from the school garden and inspect them with a magnifying glass. Make iced hot chocolate and learn the history behind the drink. Wear an ice cube necklace to beat the heat and cook up some sun tea in the sun. Make solar oven s'mores, relax in a camping tent, work in the school garden, and cool off under the sprinkler.
August - Make your own super bubble solution and see if you can stand in a bubble. Make twig and pinecone people, make and sail a twig raft, and tie knots to make friendship bracelets with your new friends. Make solar oven s'mores, relax in a camping tent, work in the school garden, and cool off under the sprinkler.
Pick up will be at the Swift River pavilion unless otherwise notified. Sessions will be held in the Swift River cafeteria during inclement weather.
Children will need a note from home to stay after school and gather in the pickup area. Children are asked to bring a water bottle and snack. Children will always need to be dressed and prepared for the outdoor weather.
School nurse/school staff are not present for this after school program.
Registration Deadline
- 10 days prior to the start of session
- A $10.00 late fee applies to all registrations after the deadline
- If Swift River School has early dismissal due to inclement weather, class will be cancelled.
- The instructor will reschedule class due to inclement weather.
Staff
- Ms. Laura Bishop is a Girl Scout troop leader and substitute teacher for the Belchertown Elementary schools. She is a volunteer for the Belchertown School Gardens, loves nature, animals, reading stories, and all things kids. Laura is red cross adult and pediatric first aid/CPR/AED certified.