The Bob Jones Nature Center in Southlake opened the doors of its new facilities in April and the programs and activities have been growing ever since.
The Center aims to reach children in the Southlake, Grapevine, Colleyville area to engage their interest in nature, though it does many programs for adults, too.
But from the initial hike hosted by BJNC, children have always been included. "Involving youth has always been a goal of the organization," Emily Galpin, president of BJNC, said.
Camp Summer Oaks, a well-known Southlake science summer day camp for children, held its classes at BJNC this summer rather than at a local elementary school.
The move was well-received by participants who were able to experience nature first-hand. Not only were they able to interact with the live animals kept within the center, the groups also sighted deer, bluebirds, hummingbirds, a variety of insects and wild turkeys.
"It was a real joy to go out and walk the trails and enjoy nature," CSO camp director Rosemary Hutchins. The BJNC, as a joint effort with the city of Southlake, is offering an array of preschool and elementary-age classes through the city’s parks department. They are listed in this fall’s Southlake Scene, a city publication that is mailed to all residents.
One of the teachers, Patty Griffin, is a master naturalist and veteran teacher. She has at BJNC for several years before it moved into its permanent facility. Her first classes were held at the day camp area of Bob Jones Park.
Her class topics are seasonally related so that she can use what is presented by nature. For instance, her class offerings in October all relate to autumn’s natural wonders.
"I love working with the children and witnessing their excitement," Griffin said.
"I also like to learn and am curious about nature so it’s fun for me to keep learning," she added.
Monica Hutchins, a long-time instructor at Camp Summer Oaks, and also a daughter of Rosemary, is teaching several classes at BJNC this fall. Other new offerings include home school classes and hikes tailored to the needs of the group and school field trips. BJNC also welcomes boy and girl scout troops.
For something different, children can have a birthday party at the Center with friends. These will include hikes and live animal demonstrations.
Children can also find ways to serve at BJNC. They can be trained to assist in feeding the indoor animals kept at the Center and filling the outdoor feeders.
"The possibilities are endless and the nature center is for everyone interested in getting just a little bit closer to the natural treasures right in our backyard," Galpin said.