Family Science Outside: Invasive Plants! brings at-home learners and their grown-ups into the living lab of the great outdoors to explore the impacts that invasive plant species can have on native plants already growing there. Then, work as a team to remove the invasives – a great Earth Day project!
This choose-your-own adventure style experience is a perfect escape from screens, but also a real-world supplement to school studies (aligned with many area school curricula and state and national standards).
This experience includes: A virtual introduction from Jennings staff, including guidance on how to identify the targeted invasive plant (garlic mustard) and how to pull it. An investigation guide to complete together as a family, containing activities for exploring invasive plants and their impact on native plants, and all the needed materials for the invasive plant removal.
When? April 18th or the 20th – 22nd. Families/cooperative groups/”pods” register for their own time slot on one of the available dates. Time slots are available for one family/cooperative group/”pod” at a time (max 12 people/group) on Sunday, April 18 or Tuesday, April 20 – Thursday, April 22 every hour or half hour from 9:00 am – 2:00 pm
Who? Especially meant for families with children in grades 2-6, but siblings welcome.
How? Registration is required by clicking the register button or by calling 724-794-6011. When registering, register one responsible adult, and provide names for all other participants and include ages for children in the “Additional Info We Should Know” section. We’ll email a link to the virtual introduction and an electronic copy of the guide at least a day in advance of your scheduled time.
Upon arrival, you’ll check out the loaner kit and receive the printed guide (if desired), then complete the activities together in designated areas of the park.
The following COVID-19 safety protocols will be in place:
All introductions are virtual, and pick up and return of equipment is no-contact outdoors. All materials will be thoroughly sanitized. Everyone should practice thorough and frequent hand washing and sanitizing. We ask participants to stay home if they have been diagnosed with COVID-19, are experiencing any symptoms of COVID-19, or have been in contact with anyone who has been diagnosed or is experiencing symptoms. Anyone entering the building (not required) for any purpose must wear a mask.Waiver and contact info required for participants. Investigation guides are available to print at home. NOTE: All programs are subject to change
If you need an accommodation to participate in park activities due to a disability, please contact the park you plan to visit. With at least three days notice, interpreters for people who are deaf or heard of hearing are available for educational programs.
