Millburn's Arboretum Offers Falls Programs For Kids

The Cora Hartshorn Arboretum is launching its fall programs just in time for back to school to supplement Millburn's education out in nature.

"Dirty hands equal engaged hands," the environmental educator, Erica Fisher, said. "If they're not getting some kind of dirt on them, what are they really learning."

The Arboretum’s after school program kicks off the week of Sept. 11. Designing their own opossums, owls and raccoons masks for the displays kids will learn about these nocturnal creatures. Other areas explored by participants include chipmunks and fall’s beautiful foliage.

"It's just a way to have fun with science and nature," Fisher, who teaches the classes, said. "Once outside anything can happen."

All classes are catered to the age group and will explore ages related to them. 

Kids are separated into club by age, named the Chipmunks, Raccoons, Explorers and Junior Naturalists, and each week will study a different theme about nature. The programs are designed for students in grades from Kindergarten through 8th.

The Eagles club meets every Saturday morning starting at 9:15. The club will learn about animals for “Creatures of the Night” presentation.

There is also Turtle Tot classes for 3-to 5-year-olds and Parent and Child classes. The youngsters will have hands on experiences with nature by exploring and creating in the outdoor world. 

All club members will get the chance to watch the transformation of monarch caterpillars into butterflies. The classes will not only explore the 16 acres of the arboretum but educate on its history. 

"That's what I get excited for, teaching the kids about all the history of the Cora Hartshorn," Fisher said. 

For more information on any of the programs you can check out the website: www.HartshornArboretum.org. or call  973-376-3587.

Also in the planned for the fall:

• The arboretum has a camping trip planned in its own property on Sept. 22-23 and the following camp out is at Swartswood State Park on Oct. 13-14.  This allows the families to experience a camping outing with the assistance of the Arboretum staff. 
• On October 20 the Fall Festival is planned starting at 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Residents can enjoy the fall leaves, nature hikes, pumpkin decorating contest, pie baking contest and costume parade. There are small fees for food & pumpkin purchases.
• The arboretum also has new women’s programs that is held the second Wednesday evening of every month from 7 to 8:30 p.m