3rd-5th

Spring is on the Way! Let's Decorate.

Smooth tree trunks make great canvases for spring yard decoration.

Whether you are decorating for Easter or the Advent of Spring, tree trunk art is a great way to brighten up your yard. Use sidewalk chalk in various colors to decorate tree trunks and thicker branches. This is safe to do and won't harm your tree.

Materials Needed

• A tree (smooth barked trees work best)

• Sidewalk or other colored chalk.

Rock Painting For Beginners

Rock Painting has become a popular activity. These rocks can be used to decorate outdoor spaces or can be left to brighten a neighbors porch especially if they do not get out much. Remember to stay safe.

1. Explore your backyard for rocks you would like to paint.

2. Wash and dry your rocks.

3. Set up a paint station outside in a place where you won't make a mess. (Check with a parent first!)

4. Paint rocks using a variety of styles. Try paint pouring, dot painting, or layering paint for different effects.

5. Allow rocks to dry and place them in their new home. Enjoy!

Materials Needed

• Rocks

• Paint Brushes

• Paint

Note: Acrylic paint works the best as it is permanent. That means it will hold up well on your rocks. It will also stain your clothing and many surfaces. Check your setup with a parent before using acrylic paints!

Create A Memory Jar to Celebrate Your Crusade!

Add special items from your backyard to create a memory jar to celebrate all of the adventures you have had in your backyard. Explore your yard for special items that remind you of a time you were enjoying being outdoors. Collect those items and arrange them in a jar to store in your room to remind you of all the fun you have outside exploring.

Materials Needed

• Found Items from Backyard

• Pickle Jar or Mason Jar

This time of year, bluebird scouts are coming to our area to find possible nesting areas. There are many bluebird box plans. Below is a very simple plan that can be made from one board. Mount your finished bluebird box 4 feet above the ground on a post, pole, or tree. Observe and see who moves in. Material lists can be found on the instruction link below.

"15-Minute" One Board Bluebird Box

Use a Juice Container to Create a Bug Collector

1. Cut a rectangular hole in the side of a juice container.

2. Tape a piece of screen material over the hole.

3. Add structures like sticks and pine cones for your bugs to explore.

4. Collect bugs, enjoy them, and return them to nature when done.

Usually we don't plant food gardens until May. Follow these instructions and enjoy home grown food earlier in the summer by planting right now.

1. Collect milk jugs or 2L Soda Containers.

2. With a parent, cut the top third of the container off.

3. Fill with potting soil.

4. Plant seeds according to directions.

5. Using Duct Tape, re-attach the container.

6. Place containers outdoors.

7. Remove caps to water frequently.

8. Transplant to outdoor garden in may.

Materials Needed

• Empty soda containers or milk jugs

• Potting or Garden Soil

• Scissors/Tape

• Garden Seed