Preschoolers connect with nature

Last update: September 30, 2008 - 12:01 PM

Now that summer's unofficially over and the weather's cooling off, it can be harder for little ones to get quality time outdoors. The Minnesota Landscape Arboretum's Pea Pods program helps preschoolers keep connected to nature.

From Oct. 7 through Dec. 9, children ages 3 through 5 and an adult (a parent, grandparent or caregiver) pair up to explore plants, vegetables and the natural world. From 9:30 to 11 a.m. Tuesdays, each Pea Pod pair moves through a series of nature-based stations (storytime, music, planting, art, science discovery, greenhouse adventure) at their own pace. Seasonal activities include a pumpkin patch party, a tropical lu-wow and a teddy bear tea party.

The cost of the nine-week series is $99 and includes admission for one child and one adult. Call 952-443-1422 or go to www.arboretum.umn.edu.

CONNIE NELSON