At Upham Woods, we believe that learning should be a joyful and inclusive experience for people of all ages. That’s why we were thrilled to collaborate with “Grandparents University” and had memorable nature classes, where kids and their grandparents came together for a fun-filled exploration of nature and wildlife.

For the first day, our dedicated staff members, Brandon and Johanna, had the pleasure of guiding the children and their grandparents through a series of engaging activities. They started by delving into the fascinating world of animal adaptations. Children and their grandparents were able to interact with Upham’s animals and see the animals’ adaption up close. Witnessing the excitement in the participants’ eyes as they interacted with our animals was truly heartwarming.

One of the highlights of the day was the bio-test activity, where we taught the young learners how to assess water quality using living organisms. It was a hands-on experience that left everyone feeling empowered to be caretakers of our natural resources and fostered a deeper understanding of environmental conservation.

Day two’s adventures were all about engaging the senses. Children and their grandparents were encouraged to see, touch, hear, and smell different aspects of nature. We walked down the lakeshore path and tried to find out the traces of animals’ presence. It was a delight to witness the curiosity and wonder that lit up their faces as they experienced nature in a whole new way.

One of the highlights of the event was the “Monster” design activity. Children let their creativity run wild as they imagined and designed their very own “monsters,” considering their creature’s food, water, airway, reproduction, protection of prey, environment, and shelter. It was incredible to see the diversity of ideas and the way these young minds connected with the natural world.

As a Communication Intern at Upham Woods, being part of this event has left a profound impact on me. Witnessing the bond between the grandparents and their children was heartwarming, and it reminded me of the precious connections that nature can foster between generations. It was evident that the children found comfort and joy in learning from their grandparents’ life experiences, while the grandparents cherished the opportunity to share their wisdom and love for the outdoors.

At Upham Woods, we are committed to fostering intergenerational learning experiences. Grandparents University allowed children and their grandparents to bond over shared experiences, creating memories that will last a lifetime. We couldn’t be prouder to witness the enthusiasm and passion for nature that our Upham Woods’ animals sparked in all participants.

Thank you to everyone who joined us for this unforgettable event. Upham Woods will continue to be a place where education, exploration, and fun come together to nurture a love for the environment and its creatures.