Little Naturalist Story Time
Little Naturalist is taking on a new format during COVID-19. We are excited to have
our littlest explorers join us again, whether virtually, in person, or both!
On the second Monday of every month, join us on Facebook live for a nature-themed
storytime. After each reading, instructions for a simple craft
or activity that can be completed in your own home will be available to continue your
child’s learning!
Looking to get outdoors and extend your child’s learning? We are also offering a corresponding
in-person session a month that will get your little one engaged in hands-on discoveries!
COVID-19 Prevention
Protecting the health and safety of our participants, staff, and community are a top priority at Swaner. The following policies will be implemented during in-person sessions to help prevent the spread of COVID-19:
• Face coverings that cover mouth and nose are required for all participants over the age of 2, adult guardians, and staff during any indoor activities. They will be required for outdoor activities when maintaining a distance of 6 feet or more is not possible. Staff will wear masks at all times, both indoors and outdoors.
• In person sessions will be limited to 7 family groups. Each family group is limited to one adult guardian and two youth participants. Babes in arms do not count toward this total, but they must be registered as a nonparticipant in advance.
• In person participants, adult guardians, and staff will be screened upon arrival. This includes visually and verbally checking for symptoms or known exposure.
• Participants and adults who have been exposed to someone who is suspected of or known to have COVID-19 within 14 days of the session will not be able to participate.
Advanced registration is required for the in-person sessions. Due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, drop in participants cannot be accommodated. Registration for each session will close when full or 12 hours before the program is scheduled to begin (whichever comes first).
In-person sessions run from 10-11am. The cost for each session is $4 per youth participant.
October: Fall – Collect evidence of the changing season on the preserve to create a unique art project!
October 12th: Live Reading of Leaf Man by Lois Ehlert and Leaf Man Puppet Craft
October 13th and 15th: After going on a fall scavenger hunt around the Preserve, participants
will
experiment with the colors of leaves while completing a leaf pounding craft!
November: Animals in Winter – Come find out how animals on the Swaner Preserve survive the harsh conditions of the
winter season!
November 9th: Live Reading of The Road Home by Katie Cotton and Animals in Winter Craft
November 10th: Participants will explore animal biofacts and engage in imaginative
play
to discover which animals migrate, hibernate, or adapt during winter.
December: Sustainable Holidays – You're never too young to start being “green!” Come learn about sustainable practices
that help our environment during this holiday season.
December 14th: Live Reading of Michael Recycle Saves Christmas written by Ellie Patterson and illustrated
by Alexandra Colombo
December 15th: The in-person session has been cancelled.
If you are unable to attend the session you registered for, please contact Bri Cencak directly at brianna.cencak@usu.edu or (435)797-8938. Refunds will not be given for sessions missed.
Name: Brianna Cencak
Position: Youth Programs Coordinator
E-mail: brianna.cencak@usu.edu
Phone: 435-797-8938
Swaner Youth Programs are conducted in partnership with Utah State University Extension 4-H.
Support the Little Naturalist Program!
Help our program continuously improve and grow by donating books of your choice from our Amazon Wish List! New stories allow us to spark participants' interest with new topics and provide a unique experience with every visit. The books will also be made available to the public in our Naturalist Room, a place for families to relax, read, and learn about the environment. Your donation and support is greatly appreciated!
