The Nature Explore Classroom at Pinedale Children's Learning Center

Additional materials such as tree cookies, large rocks and small logs, and natural materials were added to each area this year.

The children planted wildflower and vegetable gardens this spring and designed stepping stones to decorate and personalize this beautiful space. Families brought their children by all summer long to weed and harvest the garden. Their hard work was recognized by a local garden club with the "Garden of Beauty" award.

Thirty families participated in the beginning of the year Open House held in the Nature Explore Classroom. An annual camping day was also held in September. Families arrived with tents and other camping gear and spent the entire day outside engaged in outdoor educational activities.

An art teacher is working with the children once a week in activities to expose them to nature and nature artists. They are able to experiment with a multitude of natural materials to create sculptures, collages and mobiles.