Ages 3-8 (Children 5 and under must be accompanied by a caregiver)

Inspired by the poem Who Has Seen the Wind? by Christina Rossetti (1830-1894)  and by the book  Leaf Man by Lois Ehlert, available at Split Rock Books- we will work with the fallen leaves, to create temporary leaf creatures outside that can blow away, and that’s okay! We will observe the autumn season by noticing the movement of leaves in the wind, learn a poem with creative movement, and notice the different leaves and which trees they belong to, before moving on to leaf creature artwork that participants can take home!

Each month features a seasonal theme that ties what is happening in the natural world to children’s stories, poems, the art of observation and inquiry outside, and creative play.  We’ll use seasonal materials found in nature, tie-in to a children’s book (in partnership with Split Rock Books!) to make a project that can continue to inspire you and your child throughout the season. 

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Lara Shihab-Eldin is an architectural designer focused on sustainable materials. She recently completed a children’s library space which brings together literacy, play, and ecological design; inspired by the history, landscape, and industry of a Hudson River community. Lara has volunteered for the past 3 years to encourage environmental stewardship and teach outdoor education in her community. She loves teaching and learning with collaborators, outdoor educators, and children, and bringing interdisciplinary design thinking to seasonal, nature-inspired art projects!

Andrea Toscano is an artist and gardener based in Kingston NY. She currently is concentrated on in exploring how nature, art and design intersect through community outreach projects. Promoting sustainability and self-resilience through nature-based art and design projects is the core of her work. She currently assists with an outdoor learning program for children, and is inspired by facilitating hands-on learning to maintain healthy communities!