Virtual After School Program

Course Description: What does it mean to really see an object in nature? Train your eye to notice things differently as you recreate the natural world on your pages. Participants will learn how to make observations, set goals, look closer, record information for later use, and how to make their nature journal their own.

Materials: Journal, pencil/pen, colored pencils, place to go outside, magnifying glass (optional), camera (optional)

Suggested age: 8 years old - 18 years old recommended

Course Description: Participants will get a chance to explore nature by learning how to write creatively. Every week they will create short stories, poems, fictional blurbs, and more to get the creative juices flowing.

Needed Materials: Journal, pen/pencil, camera (optional), your imagination

Recommended age: 11 years old and up

Course Description: Are you looking to get out of the house? But not entirely comfortable with the prep? Let's talk about what you need to be comfortable in the wilderness, maybe with a little history thrown in. We might as well do some fun things while we're at it!

Needed Materials: None

Recommended Age: 11 years old and up

Course Description: Students will get the opportunity to think creatively and to make projects with different guest teachers each week. These projects may require additional materials to actively participate, but all are welcome to watch and practice on their own time. At the end of the class, we will have a virtual show and tell where students can show off their projects! No previous experience necessary; we invite people of all skill levels to participate, learn, and grow!

Recommended Age: 8 years old and up

Needed Materials: 

• Week 1: Make your own comic with Rock!
  • Materials Required: Paper and a Writing Utensil
• Week 2: Weave yourself a Tree of Life with Ashley
  • Materials Required: 1 Willow Branch or a pre-made hoop, at least 1 skein of yarn, other things to decorate with, scissors 
• Week 3: Paracord Art with Katrina!
  • Materials Required: Paracord or similar material
• Week 4: Raptors by Family program
  • No materials needed
• Week 5: Learn to Crochet with Allie!
  • Material Required: Red Heart yarn, 5mm (H-8) crochet hook
• Week 6: Show and Tell
  • Required Materials: Any creative project you've worked on!

Course Description: Learn different forms of story-based writing through investigation and observation, a range of content about the world around us, and learner-led creativity. Topics include astronomy and mythology, history and journalism, animal signs, folklore, and analysis of arguments. 

Recommended age: 10 years old ad up 

Course Description: Embark on an epic adventure with other kids in an easy to learn role-playing game. As a team, they will work together to overcome countless challenges as they uncover the secrets of the Lost King's Tomb. Success depends on their cooperation, creative thinking, and the ability to overcome obstacles in the face of unknown dangers. This is a great opportunity for kids to practice working in group settings, developing your voice as a leader and as a team member, and to challenge yourself in a low-risk high-fun environment. No experience necessary, just two six-sided dice, some paper, and a writing utensil!

Materials Needed: Six-sided dice, paper, writing utensil

Recommended age: 8-12 years old 

Course Description: Ever wonder about the animals in your neighborhood that you see or hear all the time? Would you like to know more about how to determine the animals that have been wondering around their house and what they are doing? Learn about Minnesota wildlife, biomes, animal tracking, and more. Meet different Osprey Wilds Animal Ambassadors throughout the course.

Needed Materials: Journal (optional)

Recommended age:  8 years old and up

Course Description: Each week will be spent creating and rehearsing, with the final week being a live performance. Participants will gain skills in public speaking and self-expression, be able to create and share original content, and participate in a cumulative group production of a short play. 

Needed Materials: None

Recommended age: any!