If you have a child ages 5 to 11 who loves to learn about the outdoors and nature, EcoDiscovery Experience offers three-hour sessions that meet two or three mornings per week by age, visiting various locations around the Island
Mark Mobius created and leads the program, which is slated to start Monday, June 29. No more than eight participants per group, by advance reservation only. Ages 5 to 8 meet Monday, Wednesday and Friday; ages 9 to 11 meet Tuesday and Thursday. Each group will be accompanied by one instructor and one assistant.
Mobius says his goal is to provide a safe and fun exploration of Shelter Island’s native habitats to help the young participants develop an appreciation for nature and an ability to see the natural world differently.
“The experience is more about asking questions than looking up answers,” the program flyer says. “It is immersive and hands-on.”
What they’ll learn
In this program young scientists will learn such things as:
- Safety when in nature
- Habitats
- Identifying useful plants
- Environmental stewardship
- Using senses to make observations
- Collecting specimens
Lifelong passion for the outdoors
“I have always had a lifelong passion for the outdoors” Mobius told us in a phone conversation. He has a Masters Degree in Environmental Management and over 20 years of professional experience in environmental management and consulting. He successfully ran this program 8 years ago, but full-time work prevented him from operating it in consecutive summers.
“The program is ideal for right now because I always wanted to run it again and because my son, Miles is now 7, plus it is way more fun,” Mark said.
“We will address ticks and perform daily tick checks,” Mark said. However, choice of tick and sun protection will be up to the child’s care provider. He’ll offer snacks and water in a safe manner.
Where to explore
The EcoDiscovery Experience group will meet at various spots on the Island. Caregivers will drop children off at pre-designated spots each week including, Crab Creek, Fiske Field and other public spaces. Outside of exploration of nature there will be art and play.
Details
Sessions are three hours each, from 8:45 to 11:45AM by advance reservation only. Choose Monday, Wednesday and Friday for ages 5 to 8, for $300, or Tuesdays and Thursdays for ages 9 to 11, for $200. For any single day, the cost $125. There is a 5 percent discount for reservations of two weeks or more.
Mark offers private parties or evening events upon request. For reservations and inquires, call 631-749-6009 or send an email.
