The Arbor Day Foundation was founded in 1972, the centennial of the first Arbor Day observance in the 19th century. I was born just a month later in Oregon – where a full week is set aside to celebrate trees.
The Arbor Day Foundation inspires people to plant, nurture, and celebrate trees.
We can do better than a single day or even a full week to honor earth. Join us in celebrating trees all year long with these 12 activities.
1. Learn about the history of Arbor Day
2. Plant a fruit tree in your yard or enjoy field trip to an apple farm
3. Correlate the history of the United States to one tree’s growth rings
4. Create art or poetry inspired by trees
5. Get Involved with the US Forestry Department or other resource agency
6. Learn how to measure a tree’s height, crown spread and diameter
7. Study the ecosystem of one particular tree
Life Logic: Botany – Plenty O’Plants is a hands-on life science curriculum that provides ample opportunity for kids to explore plant science in-depth. This 10-week unit is full of inquiry-based activities and lesson plans fully outlined for you.
8. Learn to identify trees in your community using a dichotomous key or create your own
9. Study the structure of a tree, how it functions, and what benefits a tree provides
10. Take a nature walk and practice your new skill
11. Organize a Nature Explore Families’ Club
The Arbor Day Foundation has put together a research-based, field-tested collection of resources designed to help you organize a Nature Explore Families’ Club at your school, organization, or in your neighborhood. The Families’ Club Kit has everything you need to start a club and help you connect families with the outdoors and each other.
It also includes general information and customizable forms to get your club started, a facilitator’s guide with helpful hints on organization, and 15 visual, child-friendly activity sheets with facilitator notes specific to each one. For families interested in getting started with nature study and outdoor learning in a co-op environment, this is a wonderful resource!
Read my post, How to Start a Homeschool Coop, to learn more about how to get started with collaborative learning experiences.
12. Show us your favorite tree
Post your photo in the comments, on my Facebook, or send me an email (eva underscore varga at me dot com). I’ll compile them in a special post and we can celebrate Arbor Day together!
