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, virtually. 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!
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 and Sustainable Holidays Craft.
January: Water – Water shapes our ways of life. Join us as we explore the wondrous workings of water and get a sneak peek of “Water/Ways,” our newest traveling exhibit from the Smithsonian!
January 11: Live Reading of Water by Frank Asch and Water Experiment and Craft.
February: Beavers – Have you met Swaner’s newest neighbors? Tag along as we discover what these busy beavers have been up to and learn how they build their lodges!
February 8: Live Reading of Beaver’s Lodge by Ingrid and Dieter Schubert and Beaver Puppet and Lodge Craft.
March: Patterns in Nature – Get ready to take a closer look at the world around you! We will use our observation skills to identify what patterns we can find in the outdoors.
March 8: Live Reading of Swirl by Swirl by Joyce Sidman and illustrated by Beth Krommes and Swirls in Nature Craft.
April: Eggs – Chirp chirp! Springtime is here! Come explore the different shapes, sizes, and colors of eggs.
April 12: Live Reading of An Egg is Quiet by Dianna Hutts Aston and illustrated by Sylvia Long and Egg and Bird Craft.
May: Backyard Bugs – What’s it like for a tiny bug to be living in a big world? Join us as we discover the important role bugs have in our lives.
May 17: Live Reading of Hank's Big Day by Evan Kuhlman and Chuck Groenink and Backyard Bug Craft.
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!
