The three one-week camps run from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. beginning on July 27.
According to camp director Amy Cabaniss, campers will investigate the amazing tropical and native plants at the Botanical Center; learn about birds, insects and mammals; harvest and taste locally-grown produce; and learn about other connections to their environment.
“They will actively engage in STEAM activities, building a knowledge of science, technology, engineering, the arts and mathematics as they relate to nature. They will also play wildlife-themed games, create arts and crafts, keep journals, collect treasures for their nature boxes and more,” said Cabaniss, URI’s youth STEAM coordinator. “It’s a great opportunity to engage children in their outdoor world in a fun, educational and exciting way.”
Week one, (July 27-31), called Eco-Crusaders: Urban Discovery, is for 8 to 12 year olds and features games and activities that connect them to the importance of local food, composting, pollinators and clean water.
Week two (Aug. 3-7), Where the Wild Things Live, introduces children ages 6 to 10 to biodiversity in Roger Williams Park by viewing birds, mammals, and participating in animal-themed games.
Week three (Aug. 10-14), Urban Garden Explorers, is for children ages 8 to 12 and focuses on activities to investigate where their food comes from.
Each weekly session costs $175 and includes lunch. Need-based scholarships are available on a first-come, first-served basis. For more information or to register for the camp, visit the URI Outreach Center website, call 401-874-2900 or email outreach@uri.edu.