A ‘second spring break’ spent in the garden

Students who had a ‘second speak break’ take part in outdoor activities organized by the Sonoma Ecology Center. 

The bonus days-off were the result of the school district designating unused emergency days as ‘non-student/non-work’ days. The shift inspired the Sonoma Ecology Center, with the financial support of Sonoma Valley Education Foundation, to offer two free camps for 2-6-grade students to learn more about nature and agriculture.

The first five-day session was in March. The second is underway this week and culminates with a focus on Earth Day. 

Julia Megna, SEC education project manager, directed the camp days. On the first day, kids toured the 6-acre farm and straw bale barn, then played in the dirt – studying soil and building compost. 

Other days focused on pollinators, from a hedgerow game to the bee and butterfly garden hunts; a hike through oak woodlands to observe birds and wildlife and create crafts; harvesting, preparing and creating new recipes; and a visit to VanHoosier Wildflower Preserve for a hike and special Earth Day activities. 

Participating students play educational nature games, plant crops, draw and journal nature observations, conduct experiments and fully immerse in local habitats with friends and peers. 

Each camper will finish the week with a memory book of their environmental experiences.

Photos courtesy Sonoma Ecology Center