Kids on the Prairie
Explore nature’s beauty and surprises!
Kids on the Prairie is for children and their adult family members. Experienced volunteer educators and guides will facilitate a short hike to learn about nature and explore the grounds and trails. This free event is open to members of Holy Wisdom communities and the general public.
2024 Dates (please register below)
- April 14 – Signs of Spring. We will look for signs of emergent plants, animals and insects. Depending on the weather, we may find nectar sources for emerging bumble bees. Weather permitting, we will explore the Lost Lake area where we may hear frogs calling.
- May 19 – Birds & Binoculars. Kids and adults are invited to look at the world through binoculars. What birds can we see? Our team experts will teach about Eastern Bluebirds and Sandhill Cranes.
- June 23 – Butterflies & Berries. We will search the prairie for butterflies. Our monarch expert will show us some monarch eggs. We will use magnifiers to find interesting insects on prairie plants. Then we’ll explore the woods to find seasonal berries and learn who eats them.
- August 11 – Lost Lake Critters. Who lives in the lake? Take a look at the tiny critters that feed all the residents of Lost Lake. Observe the painted turtles and explore the trails around the lake for signs of other creatures.
- September 8 – Seed Collecting. Seeds hold all of life. Take a seed stroll through the prairie. Then collect seeds of some native prairie plants and learn how to plant them. Every family will take home seeds from two species.
- October 13 – Trees in Fall. Trees are more than their leaves. Walk through the savanna and the woods exploring bark, nuts, lichens and more. Look for animal homes. Make a leaf rubbing. Take photos.
- November 10 – Creatures in Winter Family Game. Come for the end of season party. We’ll start with a short hike and then warm up with a bonfire, hot chocolate and a fun interactive game for the whole family. (Slide show.)
Time & Location
Sundays, 10:30-12:00 pm
Holy Wisdom Monastery
4200 County Road M, Middleton
Meet at the kiosk in the monastery building parking lot. For more information contact Julie Melton, jmelton@uwalumni.com.
Schedule
- 10:30 am – meet at the kiosk
- 10:35 am – introductions and welcome
- 10:40 am – guided walk exploring the grounds and trails
11:45 am/noon – end
