Learning Leaves at November Park P.A.L.S.

White oak and shingle oak leaves litter the path at Shawnee Prairie Preserve.

The Darke County Park District Naturalist, Hannah Linebaugh, invites children in kindergarten through 2nd grade to join her on November 14th from 9:30am to noon to learn about the leaves and trees here in Darke County with the Park P.A.L.S. program. Park P.A.L.S. is a series of monthly programs designed for students of this age group who are interested in nature. P.A.L.S. stands for Practicing And Learning Stewardship, and its mission is to develop future earth stewards through meaningful educational opportunities and hands-on experiences in the natural world.

This month everyone will meet at the Nature Center on St. Rt. 502 west of Greenville to explore. Children will learn about the difference between conifer and broadleaf trees, a few basic leaf types and shapes, and play a game to help remember. Then everyone will head outside to see what types of leaves are still on the trees or on the ground to discover. The class will conclude with a fun and colorful project with leaves found along the way. A fee of $3 is charged for the program, and preregistration is required. For any questions about the Park P.A.L.S. program or any other Park District programs or to register for the November class, please call the Nature Center at (937) 548-0165.