December nature p.L.A.y. Calendar of Events

December

nature p.L.A.y. Calendar of Events

In seed time learn, in harvest teach, in winter enjoy. - William Blake | Photo by Ilana Gustafson Turner

Ah! It’s almost winter in L.A! We can head to the mountains to see snow, but we don’t need to shovel it from our driveway to get there. It’s that time of year when we can… well, pretty much do what we do the rest of the year – play outside! So, whether you head to the Ballona Wetlands for their freshwater marsh tour, take a hike with the Children’s Nature Institute, or meet some reindeer at the L.A. Zoo, you can pretty much count on some mild weather to accompany you.

Tough It Out, Kids!

Saturday 12/5 your 8-12 year-old can learn how to tough it out in the woods at the Headwaters Corner Youth Naturalist Program: Outdoor Survival from 9:30am-12:30pm. Ages 8-12 will learn how to not get lost; then learn how to stay safe and comfortable if lost. Make a lean-to shelter. Bring a compass for a scavenger hunt. Bring lunch, water, and compass; wear sturdy shoes. FEE. Preregistration required: 818-591-1701 x181.

Walking in a Winter Wonderland!

Saturday 12/19 join Children’s Nature Institute for their Tykes on Trails Winter Walk from 10am-12pm. This walk takes place at Malibu Lagoon where you’ll learn about the tides and play in the sand while enjoying stories, games and great nature lessons! Open to all ages. Bring a snack, water, sunblock and extra layers as it might be windy and cool. $20 per child. Sign up at their website quickly because their walks tend to fill up!

Reindeer Are SO L.A.! (temporarily, that is)

NOW through 1/03/2010 the reindeer are at the L.A. Zoo and they’re ready to meet and greet.
At the Los Angeles Zoo Reindeer Romp you can make your own reindeer antlers and join the herd or pay a visit to Santa and friends (weekends only) for a photo opportunity (nominal fee).

And if you register your kids you can leave them there for the…

Winter ZooCamp from 12/28 – 1/1
Each camp features crafts, games, activities, and tours that focus on exploring concepts that will teach children about animals and the natural world. Check out their website so you can see the different camps and register your child. It is sure to fill up, so do it early!

Are You a Marsh(ian)?

Saturday 12/12 take a Freshwater Marsh Tour at the Ballona Wetlands from 10:00 – 11:00 a.m. Join Friends of Ballona Wetlands on this romp and see a wonderful variety of birds, learn about native plants and how the freshwater system works. Meet at the large sign by the trail. Park at the marsh along the south side of Jefferson Blvd west of Lincoln Blvd.*

A Family That Natures Together, Stays Together!

Friday 12/18 spend time in Nature Together at Deb’s Park from 3-4pm. Children, ages 2-5, and their parents, grandparents, aunts or uncles will have the chance to play, explore, sing and move in the wilds of Debs Park! It is conducted in Spanish and all children must be accompanied by an adult.*

Get Crafty With Your Bad Elf!

It is gift-giving season, and what better gift can your child offer than an original creation made by their own two hands! Check out these opportunities to get crafty while spending time with nature:
Sunday 12/13 Satwiwa Native American Indian Culture Center is offering a free workshop where kids can create corn husk dolls with Kathryn James. At 10am-12pm & 1-3pm. All ages welcome. Call 805-370-2301 for info.*

Saturday 12/19 head to Deb’s Park for their Holidays With Audubon. Local artist Leo Limón will be on hand all day to help guide your creative spirit from 1-3pm. Learn how to make papel picado (cut paper) banners as well as wreaths and garlands using materials from our natural environment. At 2:00 pm, join storyteller Jacque Nunez as she takes us on a journey to the past with Native American Indian stories. Refreshments will be served. There will also be a bake sale to benefit their wonderful summer day camp program. *

Kidspace is offering two opportunities for putting idle hands to work. On Sunday 12/13 they’ll host Art Workshop: Candle Making at 11AM and 2PM. Kids ages 4 and up can make ice lace candles at the final candle-making workshop of the year. Workshop is $8 not including Museum admission.
Or you can attend…
Kidspace Kitchen: Cookies from Scratch on Monday 12/28. Where does flour come from? What is cinnamon? Kids can grind, sift, measure and mix with a pinch of science to make holiday cookie dough ready to bake at home. Morning session at 10am is for ages 3-5, afternoon session at 2pm is for ages 6-10. Cost is $35 per child, must be accompanied by an adult. Register now for one or both of these events! While you’re there don’t forget to visit the Kidspace native garden!

Don’t forget to also check out our list of parks on the right to create your own impromptu family winter sojourn!

*FREE

-Ilana Gustafson Turner

November Nature p.L.A.y. Events

November

Nature p.L.A.y. Events

“Never say there is nothing beautiful in the world anymore. There is always something to make you wonder in the shape of a tree, the trembling of a leaf.” - Albert Schweitzer |Photo by Ilana Gustafson Turner

We are smack dab in the middle of fall ladies and gentlemen, tots and teens! It’s time to celebrate the harvest and head out on the trails before the cold winter weather keeps us all indoors… Oh… wait… this is L.A. I’m writing about. Well, it’s time to head outdoors (as always) and see what Los Angeles nature has to offer this time of year. I can tell you it could come in the form of bugs and birds, acorns and kitchen scraps. See for yourself:

HOLY (SM)OAKS!

On Saturday 11/14 and Sunday 11/15 celebrate this little oak tree nut and the Fall harvest at Rancho Santa Ana Botanic Gardens‘ Acorn Festival from 10 am – 4pm.  Tongva, Chumash, Cahuilla and other native people will share their dances, storytelling and culture.  Activities, crafts and a marketplace add to this very special family event. Space is limited.  Pre-registration recommended: 909-625-8767, Ext. 224 or email registrar@rsabg.org.  Members free. Adult: $8/person.  Student/Senior: $6/person.  Child (3-12 yrs.): $4/each.

BUGGIN’ OUT!

On Saturday 11/21 head on over to Sooky Goldman Nature Center for Bugs and Their Adventures. Follow an entomologists’ lead as you seek, observe, and get to know the local bugs that roam Franklin Canyon. From 10 am – 1pm. FREE

And if your child’s bug fascination is not satiated with this excursion you can always head to the Invertebrate Exhibit at the Los Angeles Zoo.

Or head out on one of the many local trails (see our list of parks in the column on the right)  in search of the vertebrate-less creatures that make up 97% of the species out there!

THE BIRD IS THE WORD!

Maybe you’ve got an avid aviary fan on your hands. Well, Debs Park and Audubon Center in Notheastern L.A. is a great place to have fun while learning all about birds! You can take your child to their beautiful nature center which sits on over 300 acres of oak woodland and catch sight of one of the over 150 species of birds found at the park. Or you can take part in one of their on-going nature events. They offer programs in both English and Spanish. Most events are FREE.

ABC recently visited this special place. Here is the footage of their segment on Deb’s:

more about “Escape city for serenity at Debs Park…“, posted with vodpod

WE EAT NATURE TOO!

Perhaps you have a plot of dirt that you want your kids to turn into a vegetable garden! Or perhaps you have always wanted to start or join a community garden. Well, one of the first steps is teaching yourself and your children some important lessons in gardening. Here are two opportunities to do so:

On Saturday 11/14 Vista Hermosa Park, located just outside of Downtown L.A.,  is hosting a workshop for children in both Spanish and English on How to Create a Beautiful Garden Using Kitchen Scraps from 3:30 – 5:30pm. You’ll learn about how to use worms and food scraps to create a luscious, scrumptious garden. Meet in the Grotto Amphitheater. FREE

The Conejo Valley Botanic Garden has plenty of gardening games, lessons, and activities for your child every Sunday from 11am-3pm in their Kid’s Adventure Garden that will turn your little one’s thumb as green as a leprechaun’s.

-Ilana Gustafson Turner

Natural Haunts – Nature p.L.A.y. Halloween Events

Natural Haunts

Nature p.L.A.y. Suggested Halloween Events

"Auld Daddy Darkness creeps frae his hole, Black as a blackamoor, blin' as a mole." - James Ferguson

We’d like to recommend a couple of ways you can enjoy the mysterious, spooky fun of Halloween while surrounded by nature. So don your best costumes that will be sure to scare even the most stoic of oak trees and make your way to one of these natural haunts.

Vista Hermosa:

Halloween Inspired by Nature/Halloween Inspirado por la Naturaleza

Friday, October 30, 6:00 pm/Viernes, 30 de octobre, 6:00 pm

Spiders, pumpkins, and bats, oh my! What do all of these natural things have in common with Halloween? Come celebrate a classic October campfire with Naturalist Judy on the eve of Halloween. Meet at the Grotto/Amphitheater. 1.5 hours
Las arañas, calabazas y murciélagos, oh my! ¿Qué tienen todas estas cosas naturales en común con Halloween? Ven a celebrar una fogata en octubre con Naturalista Judy en la víspera de Halloween. Reunirse en el Anfiteatro / Gruta. 1.5 horas
All programs offered are free of charge.

Kidspace Museum:

Halloween Celebration

Saturday, October 31st 10am – 5pm

Kidspace Children’s Museum is offering $5 admission to all children (14 and under) who come to the Museum in costume on Saturday, October 31. Halloween festivities will include science experiments and art projects using candy, making edible gak, and a costume parade and contest.

Remember, you can always check out our list of parks on the right and go strut your Halloween stuff in some L.A. wilderness. Create your own natural fun!

Todos los programas ofrecidos son gratuitos.

July Nature p.L.A.y. Calendar of Events (part 2)

July

Nature p.L.A.y.

Calendar of Events

(Part 2)

Ahhhh! Summer is in full swing!

Now, the times may call for you to cut back on the summer travel plans but that just means more time for enjoying the abundant nature opportunities Los Angeles provides. You can create a “staycation” with outdoor concerts, festivals, nature walks, or even a local camping trip in the Angeles Forest or the Santa Monica Mountains and Beaches. Los Angeles is your oyster this summer!

LAUSD has cut summer school this year so please check out the LA Department of Parks and Recreation for alternate childcare and summer activities.

* Take action to Save 220 of our CA State Parks from closing by clicking here*

Weekend

Saturday 7/18 Vista Hermosa Natural Park is offering a free ride to King Gillette Ranch with their “Transit to Trails”. This is the perfect place to spend a Saturday with family and friends.  Pack a picnic and take a free trip to the middle of the Santa Monica Mountains from 9am-4pm. *

For a shorter excursion you can head to Franklin Canyon and learn all about “Bugs and Their Adventures” as you join naturalist Dennis “the Bug Man” on a light walk from 10am-12pm. *

Or you can spend the evening at Malibu Lagoon State Beach with the Children’s Nature Institute for their “Tikes on Trails: Moonlight Tidal Walk” from 6:30-8:30pm.

Sunday 7/19 learn all about California Native Plants at Kidspace with Naturalist Dwain Wilson from Wildwood Foundation at 11am and 1pm. Which of those plants and “weeds” that we see all the time are edible? Which can heal our ailments? Let your child unveil these mysteries.* (free with admission)

Week of Monday 7/20 through Friday 7/24

Suggestions for your week:

7/20-7/24 let your 8-11 year old child enjoy the epiphanies at Headwaters Corner’s “Discovery Nature Camp” Session 2 from 9am-4pm every day. They will “discover the wonders of nature with the aid of scientific tools, hands-on activities, crafts, games and listening to engaging talks by guestspeakers.” It will include a guided hike and fieldtrip. Pre-registration is required and enrollment is limited. Nominal fee. For more info or to register: Mountains Restoration Trust, 818-591-1701 x181

On Wednesday 7/22 Vista Hermosa park is hosting their weekly “Family Campfire Program” from 7-8pm. Go listen to stories and sing songs around the crackling flames in this beautiful park just outside the bustle of downtown.*

On Thursday 7/23 the South Coast Botanical Gardens will be the perfect setting to watch Shakespeare Festival LA perform “Romeo and Juliet”. The gardens are open at 6:15 so that you can enjoy a picnic bef0re the 8pm show begins. Call 213-481-2273 for tickets and information.

Weekend

Saturday 7/25 put on your work boots, slip on those gloves and get ready to get dirty because it’s “Farm Chore Day and Picnic” at Animal Acres Farm Sanctuary! Volunteers are asked to arrive between 9 -10 a.m. and commit to a three hour chore task. Please RSVP to info@animalacres.org if you can join them, so they can make sure they have enough vittles! *

Or head over to Deb’s Park from 1-3pm for “Art and Nature” fun. Artist Patricia González and an Audubon naturalist will lead you on a discovery of the nature of Debs Park through art.*

Sunday 7/26 get your fill of one of the most glamorous creatures in the world, the butterfly, and go visit the “Pavillion of Wings” at the Natural History Museum. They will be gracing the museum until September 7th.

Week of Monday 7/27  through Friday 7/31

Suggestions for your week:

On Tuesday 7/28 families can take a “Walk on the Wild Side”  at Descanso Gardens with foxes and giant tortoises of Africa. Rescue animals, educators and handlers will present an interactive safari of the imagination where you can learn about the habitat and survival techniques of furred, feathered and scaly beasts. Seating is first-come-first-served. $12 members, $10 non-members.

During the week there are various campfire programs to get toasty with! There is, of course the Wednesday campfire at downtown’s Vista Hermosa (See previous week’s schedule). There are also several happening at various state parks. Check the California State Park website and find one that suits your marshmallow-eating, story-hearing, sing-along-singing child’s needs.

Please feel free to contact me with any questions or suggestions.

*FREE

-Ilana Gustafson Turner

July Nature p.L.A.y. Calendar of Events (part 1)

July

Nature p.L.A.y.

Calendar of Events

(Part 1)

To see a world in a grain of sand, And a heaven in a wild flower, Hold infinity in the palm of your hand, An eternity in an hour. – William Blake | Photo by Ilana Gustafson Turner

Ahhhh! Summer is in full swing!

Now, the times may call for you to cut back on the summer travel plans but that just means more time for enjoying the abundant nature opportunities Los Angeles provides. You can create a “staycation” with outdoor concerts, festivals, nature walks, or even a local camping trip in the Angeles Forest or the Santa Monica Mountains and Beaches. Los Angeles is your oyster this summer!

LAUSD has cut summer school this year so please check out the LA Department of Parks and Recreation for alternate childcare and summer activities.

* Take action to Save 220 of our CA State Parks from closing by clicking here*

Weekend

Saturday 7/4 Kidspace is celebrating Independence day with insects, arts and crafts, science discovery and more from 10am-3pm! So, before you head out to watch the explosions in the sky take the family to the museum for some low-to-the-ground bug action. Free with museum admission.

Or you could celebrate by taking the family on a summertime “Family Nature Walk”. Every Saturday Eaton Canyon offer one from 9-11am. Placerita Canyon, which just re-opened their newly remodeled nature center, offers a walk from 11am-12pm then an “Animal Presentation” from 1pm-2pm on Saturdays as well. *

Sunday 7/5 your family can help in a “Special Beach Cleanup” at Cabrillo Beach the day after July 4th festivities! From 8-10:30 am help remove litter to protect our coastal habitats. Call (310) 548-7562 for reservations.* (And if your family really enjoys beach clean-ups I would check out Heal the Bay’s list of on-going “Nothin’ But Sand” clean-ups!)

Then you can stretch those generous but sore muscles with a “Mommy and Me Yoga” class at Franklin Canyon Park from 1-2pm. It’s a beginning level class for children 3-8 years and their families. Bring a pillow, towel, and light blanket.*

Week of Monday 7/6 through Friday 7/10

Suggestions for your week:

On Tuesday 7/7 it is “Family Fun Night” from 7-8:30pm at King Gillette Ranch! Join naturalists for songs, stories, and a nature program. Bring a blanket/chair. Marshmallows, skewers, and weather permitting, a campfire will be provided. Meet at parking lot to left of bridge.*

On Wednesday 7/8 Vista Hermosa park is kicking-off their summer programming with a “Family Campfire Program” from 7-8pm. Go listen to stories and sing songs around the crackling flames in this beautiful park just outside the bustle of downtown.*

On Thursday 7/9 at the South Coast Botanical Garden your child can learn to “Make a Salad” (and eat it too) in the Children’s Discovery Garden from 10am-12pm.*

Weekend

Saturday 7/11 it’s all about “Slime and Scales” for your 3-5 year-old at the Natural History Museum from 10:15-11:15 am. They’ll hear stories, play games, and make a scaly craft to take home in celebration of the slimy and the scaly critters that call the Discovery Center home.*

If it is an 8-12 year-old you are looking to entertain, then take them to Malibu Lagoon State Beach for “Family Field Trip” from 9:30am-12:30pm. They will discover why Malibu Lagoon is home to many living things and why the Malibu Creek watershed is important. There is a fee and pre-registration required: 818-591-1701 x181.

Sunday 7/12 the Friends of the Ballona Wetlands are offering their once-a-month “Salt Water Marsh Tour” from 1-3pm. “Learn about our coastal ecosystem and explore the wonders of nature right in the middle of urban Los Angeles.” Meet in the parking lot behind Gordon’s Market at 303 Culver Blvd, Playa del Rey.*

On Sunday you could also head to the Satwiwa Cultural Center to listen to the stories and soothing flute music from Bill “Elk Whistle” Neal under the stars from 7:30-9pm. Bring a flashlight.*

Week of Monday 7/13  through Friday 7/17

Suggestions for your week:

On Thursday 7/16 you can listen to some swing jazz while surrounded by the beautiful Rancho Santa Ana Botanical Gardens from 7-9pm. $8 adults; $6 students & seniors (65+); $4 children (3-12 yrs.) Garden Members and children under 3yrs., admitted free – so, become a member!

On Friday 7/17 it’s “Twilight Night: Dino Night” at Kidspace! “Kids and families go back in time to when dinosaurs roamed the earth. Kids can make a fossil and go on a fossil hunt, also make a cool dinosaur mask. Play the Stegosaurs Stomp, get a dino tattoo and have a roaring good time! BBQ dinners will be available for purchase.” Admission to event $5.

(Part 2 on its way!)

Please feel free to contact me with any questions or suggestions.

*FREE

-Ilana Gustafson Turner

June Nature p.L.A.y. Calendar of Events (part 2)

June

Nature p.L.A.y.

Calendar of Events

(Part 2)

"Summer afternoon, summer afternoon; to me those have always been the two most beautiful words in the English language." Henry James | Photo by Ilana Gustafson Turner

Yay for Dads! Yay for Summer! This month rings in the Summer Solstice and gives Father’s yet another good reason to go outside with the kids – Father’s day! Kick off the socks and slip into your flip-flops it’s time to romp under the trees, through the sand, within the ocean, over the warm hills,  (plug in your own preposition + place here)!

* Take action to Save 220 of our CA State Parks from closing by clicking here*

Weekend

Saturday 6/20 there are many reasons you should visit one of our local CA State Parks – it’s Father’s Day weekend, Summer Solstice, and CA State Parks Foundation is hosting SOS Weekend. They are asking that you go and enjoy a state park you bring along a sign that reads “Save Our State Parks!”, take a picture or video of your family holding the sign, and then send it to CA State Parks Foundation. They will compile them all and send them to Sacramento. Los Angeles State Historic Park and Pio Pico State Historic Park are both holding events in honor of SOS weekend. Check the foundation’s website for further details.

Also on Saturday the beautiful and historic Placerita Canyon is having an “Open House and Family Festival” in honor of the re-opening of their Nature Center from 10am-3pm. There will be animal presentations, panning for “fools gold”, food, drinks, and activities.*

Sunday 6/21 is Father’s Day and I am sad to say that none of the parks or museums that hosted a Mother’s Day event in May are hosting an event in honor of the patriarch. So, I have some suggestions for ways you can honor those hard-working, loving, giving men we call Dad (or Papa, Daddy, Father, etc).

1. Take him to a State Park and have a picnic. (Don’t forget your SOS signs!)

2. Ride your bicycles along the L.A. River.*

3. Wake up early and go bird watching at Ballona Wetlands or Malibu Lagoon SB.*

4. Spend the day in Griffith Park – you can play a round of golf or tennis, visit the zoo, observatory, Travel Town or Autry museum, ride on the merry-go-round, a pony, or the miniature train, or just throw a frisbee and have a barbeque.*

5. Hike in the Angeles National Forest above La Canada Flintridge and have lunch at Newcomb’s Ranch.*

Week of Monday 6/22 through Friday 6/26

Suggestion for your week:

Headwaters Corner is beginning their first session of “Nature Discovery Camp” for children ages 8-12 from 6/22 – 6/25 9am-3pm. This week’s topics will be stream ecology, reptiles and amphibians, Native American culture, and include a Malibu Lagoon field trip. Reservations are required and there is a nominal fee per child. Contact Susan Haugland at 818-591-1707 ext.181 for information and reservations. (Their next session will be 7/20 – 7/24.)

Weekend

Saturday 6/27 enjoy a beautiful docent-led “Family Nature Walk” through the magical Eaton Canyon from 9-11am.*

Sunday 6/28 the Conejo Valley Botanic Garden’s “Kid’s Adventure Garden has plenty of fun-filled activity to keep your energetic and curious child happy from 11am-3pm.*

Or you can follow our feathered friends with “Birdwatching for Young Children” at Malibu Lagoon SB from 10-11am. They provide binoculars!

Week of Monday 6/29  through Friday 7/3

Suggestion for your week:

Deb’s Park and Audubon Center is offering week-long nature-themed camp sessions for children ages 6 – 10, from 9am-4pm Monday through Friday. Cost is $200 per first child and $150 any additional children. There are also sessions on 7/6 – 7/10, 7/27 – 7/31 and for children ages 9 – 12 from 7/13 – 7/17. Check the website for further details.

*FREE

-Ilana Gustafson Turner

6/13-6/21 CNI & Blueberry Atelier Partner with Natural History Museum!

See our June Calendar of Events for other local nature activities.

I urge all parents and educators to go see this exhibit on view at the Natural History Museum. Children’s Nature Institute is a leader in providing urban youth with nature experiences. I also had the opportunity to hear the director of Blueberry Atelier speak at last year’s CNI Urban Nature Week forum. Her perspective on education is moving and inspirational. Please go see what beauty this collaboration has acheived.

-Ilana Gustafson Turner

Information from the CNI website is below:

Join The Children’s Nature Institute and Blueberry Atelier as they present

“A Sense of Wonder, A Sense of Place: Viewing Nature Through the Images and Words of Our Children”

June 13-21, 2009

In partnership with The Natural History Museum’s Sustainable Sundays, this week-long interactive exhibit will feature the poetry and photography of budding environmentalists in Blueberry’s preschool class. Entrance to the event is included with the cost of museum admission.

Over the past year, Blueberry Atelier Family Child Care and The Children’s Nature Institute (CNI) have been working in collaboration to offer unique, hands-on nature experiences for the parents and children of Blueberry. Once a month, CNI educators, Blueberry teachers, parents and children embarked on an exploration of Temescal Canyon. This canyon became a classroom without walls; filled with places that fed our spirits, imaginations and souls. Through these dynamic experiences, nature came alive in the hands, hearts and minds of the children.

We invite you share this journey as seen through the eyes and ears of our children.

http://www.childrensnatureinstitute.org/index.html

June Nature p.L.A.y. Calendar of Events (part 1)

June

Nature p.L.A.y.

Calendar of Events

(Part 1)

"Look deep into nature, and then you will understand everything better." - Albert Einstein | Photo by Ilana Gustafson Turner

As summer approaches & children are released from the daily care of their schools, many parents may suddenly find themselves with restless, energetic children who are craving some outdoor fun. Oh no! What to do? Well, it’s a good thing you’re here. This calendar should provide you with plenty of outdoor activities to keep those little beings happy, healthy, & stimulated! Enjoy this opportunity to bond with each other while communing with nature.

* Take action to Save 220 of our CA State Parks from closing by clicking here*

Weekend

Saturday 6/6 is the beginning of Leo Carillo State Beach June campfire series. Every Saturday in June from 7-8pm you can join a ranger for a little toasty talk around the flames. Meet at the campground and bring a flashlight.

On your way to Leo Carillo you can stop by Malibu Creek State Park for their regularly scheduled “Fun With Nature” from 12:30 – 2:30pm with games, crafts and exhibits at the nature center. Parking fee.

Sunday 6/7 your 3-8 year old can take the inspiration from the trail and use it to create their very own masterpiece. Sooky Goldman Nature Center is hosting “Hike and Craft” fun from 10am-12pm.*

Week of Monday 6/8 through Friday 6/12

Suggestion for your week:

On Thursday 6/11 the South Coast Botanical Garden is ready to help your kids learn to love “Hummingbirds and Friends”  in their Children’s Discovery Garden from 10am – 12pm. Oh! Wait! Children love hummingbirds! *

Weekend

Saturday 6/13 join the docents at Deb’s Park for a “Family Nature Walk” through their beautiful grounds from 9:30 – 11am. It’s in Spanish and English so tell all your friends and neighbors to bring their families too!*

Or you can spot a Great Blue Heron and learn about their habitat with the  Ballona Wetlands monthly “Freshwater Marsh Tour” from 10 – 11am. Meet at the entrance near Jefferson Blvd and Lincoln. *

Sunday 6/14 celebrate the scaly at Descanso Gardens with their educational program, “Reptile Family: Lizards, Turtles, and Snakes, Oh My!” at 1pm. Free with admission.

On Sunday you could also enjoy beautiful surroundings while tapping your toes at Peter Strauss Ranch as they kick off their warm-weather “Sunday Concerts in the Park” with celtic-inspired group Banshee in the Kitchen.*

Week of Monday 6/15  through Friday 6/19

Suggestion for your week:

Descanso Gardens is offering 6 weeks of “Toddler Treks with Acorn Bear” on either 6 Thursdays or 6 Fridays from 9:30 – 10:30am or 10:30 – 11:30am where your 2-4 year-old can explore the natural world through their senses. $85/child, $75 members, $50 each additional child. Call 818-949-7980 to register.

(Part 2 on its way!)

*FREE

-Ilana Gustafson Turner

May Nature P.L.A.Y. Calendar of Events

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Say goodbye to Where do the Children Play L.A. and Say hello to:

Nature P.L.A.Y.

Nature Places for Los Angeles Youth

*********************************************************************************************************

May

Nature p.L.A.y.

Calendar of Events

"It is a wholesome and necessary thing for us to turn again to the earth and in the contemplation of her beauties to know of wonder and humility." - Rachel Carson | Photo by Ilana Gustafson Turner

This month’s calendar may be a week late (sorry folks) but it is certainly filled with more outdoor activities than there are lizards on a hot dirt trail! Mother’s Day you have your choice of two concerts, two brunches, and plenty of nature, and Children’s Nature Institute’s  proves that “Kid’s Rock”  just as much as their moms with their music and nature festival. So, whether you’re a kid, a mom, or just someone who loves them, there is plenty to do outside with the family – so, stop reading this and – GO PLAY!

Weekend

Friday 5/8 you can take your toddler on a night walk with the Children’s Nature Institute from 7:30 – 9:00pm. This “Tykes on Trails Moonlight Hike” is geared toward young “naturalists” who still know how to engage their senses to notice the tiniest sound, smell or sight that one might encounter along the Temescal Canyon Trail. Strollers are okay and remember to dress for the cooler evening temps. $20 – Make your reservation on-line.

Saturday 5/9 you can learn all about trees at Sooky Goldman Amphitheater in Franklin Canyon Park with the delightful and informative “Speak for the Trees!” program from 2-4pm. For all ages!

**See Sunday’s listings for more Saturday fun.

Sunday 5/10 is Mother’s Day! There are so many ways to celebrate being a mom and spend some time in nature with the kids this weekend:

What a better way to remember this day than by planting a tree you can visit in years to come? Treepeople is hosting a “Mother’s Day Park Planting” in Sylmar from 9am – 12pm. Reserve a space on-line.

Malibu Lagoon State Beach is having a “Mother’s Day Garden Luncheon” from 11am – 3pm. Call 310-456-8432 to make a reservation. There is a fee.

South Coast Botanical Garden is having a “Mother’s Day Concert” from 2 – 4pm. Take a picnic and enjoy being serenaded by the Palos Verdes Symphony while surrounded by your family.

**Kidspace knows how to combine what a Mother wants and what will keep a child entertained with their “Mother’s Day Festival”. Your little elf can create natural facial scrubs, masks and soaps, cards and frames just for you! There will also offer chair massages for those worn out mama muscles. Bring a picnic lunch and enjoy a meal on the lawn! From 10am – 3pm on BOTH Saturday and Sunday.

** For a bit pricier option ($45/person, $38/members, $15/child) you can enjoy a “Mother’s Day Brunch” right in the middle of a rose garden at the beautiful Descanso Gardens. Make your reservation by calling 818-790-3663. You can also enjoy a concert for the price of admission, with or without purchasing the brunch at 1pm. This event is on BOTH Saturday and Sunday.

Week of Monday 5/11 through Friday 5/15

Suggestion for your week:

The passionate and knowledgeable docents at Whittier Narrows Natural Area offer school tours of their beautiful native gardens on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays from 9am – 12pm. You have to make a reservation ahead of time though by calling 626-525-5523. So, if you are a teacher – take your class! If you are a parent – tell your child’s school! See why the Friends of Whittier Narrows are fighting to protect this oasis of native wildlife for yourself!

Weekend

Saturday 5/16 learn how Runyon Canyon was formed, moved, and changed on a “Geology Walk” from 9:30 – 11:30am. Meet at the Mullholland and Desmond Estates entrance. *

Sunday 5/17 “Kid’s Rock” in Griffith Park with the Children’s Nature Institute’s fun-filled concert and nature fair that will make your kids boogie under the trees! At the Old Zoo in Griffith Park from 3:30 – 7pm. $15/person or you can purchase a $50 family package, good for 2 adults and 2 children.

On Sunday you could also rock out with some “Bugs, Lizards, Etc” as the docents of Charmlee Wilderness Area lead you on walk where your child just might encounter a few carabidae or a southern alligator lizard! From 12 – 2pm, $4 parking.

Week of Monday 5/18  through Friday 5/22

Suggestion for your week:

Do you feel like you want to be adventurous with your child but either you don’t know where to go (although that’s impossible if you’re reading this blog!) or you have no other parents with whom you can share the adventure? Well, check out the Mommy Adventure Club! They have a weekly newsletter with various group outings in the city to take yourself – and your little one and siblings, grandparents, nannies, and all are invited to join along. They offer a Green Adventure Guide for outdoor outings as well as trips to museums, the farmer’s market, eateries, city tours, and more. Sign up for their newsletter and meet some other adventurous moms and kids!

Weekend

Saturday 5/23 spend the day at the historic and beautiful Placerita Canyon! From 11am – 12pm you can explore the grounds on a “Family Nature Walk”, bring a picnic and chow down under the oaks from 12 – 1pm, then head over to the nature center for the “Animal Presentation” from 1 – 2pm where you’ll meet some pretty awesome creatures!

Sunday 5/24 Malibu Lagoon State Beach will be hosting their regularly scheduled “Birdwatching for Young Children and Parents” from 10 – 11am. They are cool as sea cucumbers and provide binoculars for those of you who don’t have them!

Week of Monday 5/25 through Friday 5/29

Suggestion for your week:

Well, Monday is Memorial Day and you may be wondering how to keep your vacationing child entertained but avoid the crowds. While all of Los Angeles heads to the beach I suggest you take your children the opposite direction and head East into the Angeles National Forest. It will be less crowded and you can still enjoy a picnic or stroll along one of the many stunning trails and you won’t have to clean the sand out of the most unlikely places when you’re done! You’ll need to display an Adventure Pass so either purchase one for the day or the year. You can do so online or at a ranger station.

Weekend

Saturday 5/30 get to know the arroyo a little better and head to Eaton Canyon for their weekly occurring “Family Nature Walk” from 9 – 11am.*

Sunday 5/31 head to the Conejo Valley Botanical Gardens! Every Sunday they offer activities, lessons, and fun at their “Kid’s Adventure Garden” from 11am – 3pm.*

*FREE

-Ilana Gustafson Turner

April Nature p.L.A.y. Calendar of Events (part 2)

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Say goodbye to Where do the Children Play L.A. and Say hello to:

Nature P.L.A.Y.

Nature Places for Los Angeles Youth

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April

Nature p.L.A.y.

Calendar of Events

(Part 2)

"We do not inherit the earth from our ancestors, we borrow it from our children." -Native American Proverb

Earth day is on April 22nd and it is a chance to connect your children to the idea of stewardship of the planet. Children, I believe, have a natural affinity toward the outdoors but they must be shown by the example of adults how to care for it. There are plenty of opportunities to share the wonder and the fragility of our Earth with your children this month, from a Whale Fesitval to park restoration. Have a beautiful Earth Day!

Weekend

Saturday 4/18 is the beginning of National Park Week (4/18 – 4/26). Now, I know this is not L.A. specific, but I think our National Parks have the invaluable ability to turn anyone into a nature-lover upon fist sight. The highlight of the week is Jr. Ranger Day on 4/25 at National Parks across the State of California. Plan a school or community or family trip!

Local fun is abundant on Saturday as well:

Kidspace is celebrating the culmination of their 13th annual caterpillar adoption with a Butterfly Release! There will be games, activities and live music. The museum opens at 10am the release happens at 2pm.

Malibu Creek State Park is having their regularly scheduled Fun With Nature from 12:30 – 2:30pm with games, crafts and exhibits at the nature center. Parking fee.

Sunday 4/19 join the Sierra Club as they celebrate John Muir’s birthday with a hike in Topanga State Park. There are several hikes that will converge at Trippet Ranch for a picnic party from 12 – 1pm in celebration of this important naturalist. A family hike takes off from Dead Horse at 10am and is 3 hours round trip. Bring water, lunch, and your best birthday hat! Information 310-559-3126.*

There is another celebration happening on Sunday.  In honor of our beloved cetacean friends, the 13th annual Whale Festival will take place at beautiful Leo Carillo State Park in northern Malibu from 10am – 4pm.  Live entertainment, whale-watching stations, arts and crafts, music and food are all a part of the day’s events.  Experienced naturalists will be on hand to help participants spot and identify gray whales and bottlenose dolphin right from the beach!  Parking $10 or free for schools with pre-arranged reservations. For more information contact: (805) 488-1827 x106 or malibuinterp@gmail.com or visit the website www.malibuinterp.com.

Week of Monday 4/20 through Friday 4/24

Suggestion for your week:

On 4/23 Children’s Nature Institute is having a Garden Planting and Watering Party at Fern Canyon Trail in Griffith Park from 10am – 12pm. Come celebrate Earth Day by caring for this very special garden that was created by children with CNI in the fall to help restore the fire-destroyed trail.  There is a $10 suggested donation. All ages are welcome.

On 4/24 share the splendor of the spring night sky with your child at Charmlee Wilderness Park from 7:30 – 9:30pm.

Weekend

Saturday 4/25 the California State Parks Foundation is celebrating Earth Day by offering opportunities to clean and restore some local parks. Ballona Wetlands, Rio De Los Angeles State Historic Park, and Malibu Creek State Park are some of the beautiful places where your family can offer some helping hands from 9am – 1pm.*

Sunday 4/26 there is yet another chance to celebrate Earth Day! Star Eco Station in Culver City will be having a celebration especially designed for children with music, games, environmental heroes, and more in honor of the Earth from 10am -4pm.

On Sunday you could also celebrate our beautiful Earth by admiring it’s feathered friends. There will be Birdwatching for Young Children and Parents at Malibu Lagoon State Park from 10- 11am. They provide the binoculars!

Week of Monday 4/27  through Friday 5/1

Suggestion for your week:

Descanso Gardens is in full Spring gear! Wisteria, lilacs, irises, and tulips are just some of the flowers now making a showing. There is always something to do at Descanso from “fossil” digs to nature strolls to train rides. You can also enjoy a cup of tea as you watch the Koi swim merrily through the pond in the Japanese garden. Or you can take in the soothing smells of the blooming lilac garden. There is a lot to do so plan to make a day of it!

*FREE

-Ilana Gustafson Turner