VINS Afterschool Program
Hands-on Nature Exploration at the VINS Nature Center
Students will learn from the animals and habitats they encounter at the VINS Nature Center or the natural spaces around their school and discover the wonders of the natural world.
Multi-week sessions give students ample time to familiarize themselves with their local environment and make friends along the way.
Whether tracking an animal through the forest or creating a nature craft, VINS Afterschool Program provides fun, fresh air and outdoor adventure for children.
About our Program
The VINS Afterschool Program is an opportunity for students to continue their learning beyond the confines of the school day.
Hosted at the VINS Nature Center or in partnership with afterschool providers in the Upper Valley, our programs offer students hands-on exploration in the outdoors with a focus on cultivating scientific thinking and ecological awareness.
For more information or to discuss options to set up an afterschool program for your school contact VINS Afterschool Coordinator, Courtney Leo, at 802.359.5000 x208 or email cleo@vinsweb.org.
VINS Afterschool Programs
Ottauquechee School - Afterschool Session
Tuesdays, March 21 & 28 / April 4, 18, 25 / May 2, 9, 16
Note: no afterschool session on April 11.
(3 sessions)
Time: 3:15 PM to 5:15 PM
Transportation provided from Ottauquechee School to VINS on Bus #12
Pick-up at VINS Nature Center, 149 Nature's Way, Quechee, VT at 5:15 PM
Cost: $136 per child for 8-week Session*
*Full session is required
Theme: Eco-Engineers
Ages: Grades K - 3
Ottauquechee Students Register Here
Description:
Eco-Engineers will lead students on an investigation to discover which animals are engineers in their own ecosystem and which have even inspired human inventions. From building dams like a beaver to exploring airplane designs modeled after birds, VINS will guide young engineers in hands-on activities that will spark innovation and reveal how the natural world can inspire us to solve real world challenges.
Please note: Students should be dressed for the weather and plan to be outside for duration of program.
Ottauquechee School - Afterschool Session
Tuesdays, May 8, 15, 22 / June 5
Note: no afterschool session on May 29.
(4 sessions)
Time: 3:15 PM to 5:15 PM
Transportation provided from Ottauquechee School to VINS on Bus #12
Pick-up at VINS Nature Center, 149 Nature's Way, Quechee, VT at 5:15 PM
Cost: $68.00 per child ($17.00 per day)*
*Full session is required
Theme: Spring Birding Club
Ages: Grades 3 - 5
Ottauquechee Students Register Here
Description:
Join us for an introduction to the world of birding! During a weekly afterschool birding club, students will explore the world of Vermont’s native birds. Through weekly opportunities for hands-on learning, citizen science, and daily on-site birding treks, VINS will encourage your young birders to become stewards of our local bird species and our shared environment.
Please note: Students should be dressed for the weather and plan to be outside for duration of program.
Fostering Educational Opportunities After School
The VINS Afterschool Program is proud to partner with the Hartford Recreation Department, Hartland Recreation Department, Dothan Brook School, Ottauquechee School, and White River School.