for children ages 7-17

Notebooks are an essential part of a scientist’s toolkit. Explorers look, listen, and record what they find. Journaling in nature builds a sense of place, critical thinking skills, and connection to nature. It encourages children to slow down, pay attention, and experience the wonders of the living world around them, tapping into their natural curiosity and creativity.

Focused exercises each week mix pictures, words, and numbers with active exploration and mindful reflection. Students work alongside teachers and volunteers through guided activities to develop a regular nature journaling practice.

This series introduces students to nature journaling and continuously builds on skills through monthly themes.

Class will be held in various locations outdoors rain or shine. Please dress for the weather.

schedule & pricing

Three Mondays a month from 11:00 am – 12:00 pm
Classes for ages 7-12 and 13-17
Instructor: Melissa Kyle
$45 member / $60 nonmember (per month)*

*Family Tree Membership or above required for Member pricing.

Registration for Arboretum Members opens Tuesday, August 8 at 9 am. Nonmember registration opens Tuesday, August 15.

Once a class has reached capacity, a waitlist will be available until full. Please be sure to check your order for waitlist placement before confirming your registration.

If your child will be attending monthly home school classes on the same date as The Art of Nature Journaling, please pick up your child promptly at 12:00 pm and return at 1:00 pm. Childcare and supervision will not be provided between the two classes.

Upcoming Classes

Building a Nature Notebook Practice

Activities this month build foundational nature journaling skills.

Observation and Natural History

Journaling activities draw attention to different parts of nature, observing organisms and details of the natural environment.