SEYMOUR - The Seymour Middle School 6th grade social studies classes, led by Ashley Castaldi and Chris Alcutt, sponsored a care package drive to collect items such as toiletries, snacks, and K-9 supplies for soldiers who are currently deployed overseas.
The purpose of this drive was to promote good citizenship, volunteerism, and to participate in an activity that promotes social awareness.
This activity was centered on the celebration of veterans. The students were able to understand what sacrifices soldiers make, such as not having access to everyday items they may take for granted.
The care packages were sent to 6th grade teacher Dina Garrow’s brother-in-law’s unit currently stationed in Afghanistan.
*Sharing this information from the Seymour Public Schools' Facebook page.
Have I trained one of my blue jay visitors to come to the back door for eggshells?
When I was sitting here at my desk about 15 minutes ago I saw him stopping by at the spot where he or one of his friends (they look a lot alike) picked an eggshell off the snow yesterday.
Is he trained? Hmm...
I wonder if I can add bird trainer to my resume. (!)
ANSONIA - The Ansonia Nature and Recreation Center, 10 Deerfield Road, offers a variety of fun and educational activities in February.
BACK TO BASICS: Make an Herb Pillow – Feb. 4, 2 p.m.
Enjoy a winter afternoon creating an herb pillow. Herb pillows, or dream pillows, are small, soft bags containing perfumed or sweet smelling items such as herbs.
They have been around for hundreds of years and used for many different reasons. You will learn the cultural history and uses for these pillows. Create your own herb pillow for yourself or give as a gift for Valentine’s Day.
MATERIALS FEE: $8. Please register; class size is limited. For ages 7 and up.
FUNDRAISER: Creature Parade – Feb. 10, noon – 4 p.m.
The animals at the Ansonia Nature Center serve as ambassadors for their species, here for the purpose of teaching about the natural world. This is a chance to get up close and learn about each animal individually and learn about their adaptations and where they came from.
The cost of caring for animals is considerable and your contributions will help with their specialized diets, daily care, and creature comforts.
Participants will get a chance to hold a dove, pet a snake and high-five a spider. Each animal will get its own 20-minute spotlight during this afternoon fundraiser.
A schedule of animal showings will be listed on our website. This program is suitable for all ages.
DONATION: $6 per person / $15 per family.
NATURE AND PLAY FOR CHILDREN WITH AUTISM AND OTHER DEVELOPMENTAL DELAYS – Feb. 11, 2:30 p.m.
Do you have a child aged 8-12 with autism and other developmental delays? Would you like to join a new group playtime that meets once a month?
Gently led by Ranger Amie, this group will explore ways to introduce your child to playing indoors and outdoors at the Nature Center. Monthly activities include meeting animal friends, taking a walk or easy hike, and nature crafts.
Playtime will begin at 2:30 p.m. and end at 4:30 p.m. (or however long your child would like to stay). Please arrive on time. We will meet inside at the small classroom and children must be accompanied by an adult for the duration of the class. FREE. Pre-registration required; group limited to 10 children with adult
Session activity: Making a bottle bird feeder.
PAINTING ON WOOD: Signs and Nature Scenes – Feb. 17, 2 p.m.
Artist Amie Ziner will show you how to paint a miniature sign on wood. Make a cute sign for a child’s room, a holiday gift, or room décor! Bring your own small piece of weathered siding, cedar shingle, timber, or driftwood. There will be samples available for inspiration.
Ages 6 and up, with an adult helper. Paint and brushes will be supplied. FREE. Please register; class space is limited.
SNOWSHOE SUNDAY: Getting Ready for Bluebirds – Feb. 18, 1 p.m.
Need to get out? Enjoy the winter with this guided hike through our woodlands and fields. Join Ranger Dan and snowshoe around the Nature Centergrounds to clean out the bluebird boxes. Bluebirds will start nesting again in March and April.
Great exercise and fun for adults and children ages 8 and up. We have snowshoes to borrow! FREE, but pre-registration is required.
WINTER BREAK: Winter Wonderland Activities – Feb. 20, 1–3 p.m.
Chilly, snowy days are calling your kids outdoors.
Come for fun winter activities on this day off from school. There’s nothing better than gliding through the cool air on your sled. We will take the whole family to our awesome hill for sledding fun, but toddlers should ride with a parent. Everyone should be well-bundled in layers to stay warm. After our adventure we will come inside for hot cocoa and a chance to meet one of the Nature Center’s animals. FREE for families and all ages. Registration required; families must bring their own sleds.
NATURE EXPLORERS - Feb. 21, 28, Mar. 7, 14, 10 a.m.
Join our four-week pre-school/toddler program for children ages 2-5 and their adult explorer. Participants will have fun exploring nature every week in these outdoor classes.
The classes are typically loosely structured and influenced by the seasons and interest of the children. We will go outside for a short hike and to explore nature every class so please dress for the weather. Classes will end with a light snack (provided or bring your own) and conversation.
TUITION: $40 for all four weeks, space permitting (cash or check payable to Ansonia Nature Center) due at first class. Class is limited to 10 children.
Call to register for programs at 203-736-1053.
*** ONGOING WEEKLY PROGRAMS ***
Creature Features – Saturdays, noon
Come to meet our furry, scaly, and feathery animal ambassadors. You’ll have the chance to touch and hold them in this FREE family program for all ages.
Sunday Guided Hikes – 1 p.m.
Join a Nature Center guide on Sunday afternoons for fun, exercise, and learning about our trails! See the above listings for hikes with a specific theme.
Fiber Arts Group – Tuesdays, 6 p.m.
Get together with others to work on your fiber arts projects! Bring any kind of fiber work -knitting, felting, crocheting, etc. A great way to dedicate time to your handiwork and socialize too. FREE.
This is a press release from the Ansonia Nature and Recreation Center.
