Dunwoody, Ga. — On Wednesdays in September, K-5th graders can take a break from virtual learning and come to the Dunwoody Nature Center for outdoor nature and science classes in a new program called Backyard Scientists. All classes are based on the Georgia Standards of Excellence in Science for K-5th graders.

While online learning is a necessary component of education during the COVID-19 pandemic, Backyard Scientists is an opportunity to get students outside, reconnect with nature, and have fun in a socially responsible environment. The CDC is encouraging parents to let their children play and explore outdoors, citing the outdoors as a great resource for improving physical and mental health (Source: CDC.GOV – Keeping Children Healthy During the COVID-19 Outbreak).

Each Backyard Scientists session consists of four classes that will focus on different nature-related themes based on the student’s grade level. Themes include: The Five Senses, Trees and Plant Cycles, Insects, Geology – From Boulders to Clay, Food Chains and Webs, and Water Studies.

September Session Dates: September 9, 16, 23, 30

• K-2nd grade classes are from 10:00am-12:00pm

• 3rd-5th grade classes are from 1:00pm-3:00pm

Students will need to come prepared for outdoor activities including dressing for the weather and bringing a refillable water bottle. Parents are asked to pack a mask for their student for any limited indoor activities. 

Procedures are in place to ensure the health and safety of students and staff. These procedures are in compliance with guidelines set by Governor Brian Kemp and rules for day camps by Bright from the Start: Georgia Department of Early Care and Learning with whom we carry an exemption status. 

Despite the introduction of new regulations, much of  the Nature Center’s programming remains unchanged. 

“While some safety procedures are new, what makes our programming great has remained the same,” said Michael Cowan, Executive Director. “Our mission is always to inspire the love of nature and get the kids outside, off the screens, loving nature and then also learning how to preserve it.”

For more information about Dunwoody Nature Center’s Backyard Scientists Nature Classes, visit us at https://dunwoodynature.org/backyard-scientists-nature-class/.