New "Nature Nook" reveals animal habitats with hands-on learning

Young children now have a special place to enjoy hands-on fun at the Delaware Museum of Natural History: the new "Nature Nook." Interactive activities transport kids inside a cave, streambed, meadow, and woodland to explore wildlife and habitats using their senses and simple tools.

"Young children are natural scientists, curious about the world around them," Education Director Paula Holloway said. "The Nature Nook fosters that spirit of adventure in discovering nature's wonders." 

Housed in the former Discovery Room, which needed upgrades after years of heavy use, the Nature Nook is specially designed for children ages 2 through 10. The renovated and re-imagined space promotes interaction between children and their parents or caregivers, which is an important aspect of early childhood learning. Trained educators, docents, and volunteers will facilitate educational interactions and manage the flow of visitors if the room fills to capacity.
 
Activities include:
 

Eagle's Nest: A larger-than-life eagle's nest designed for dramatic play with realistic puppets.
Cave: Black lights reveal unique creatures that live inside caves and examples of the archeological, paleontological, and geological discoveries possible there. 
Live Animals: Reptiles and amphibians will be on view with educators periodically taking creatures out of their homes for up-close looks.
Fossil Dig: Children can hunt for fossils as they imagine life as a paleontologist.
Stream Table: Role-play using miniature animals highlights waterways as vital habitats.
Murals: Vivid wall murals by wildlife artist Dan Gotel depict airy nature scenes. 
Discovery Boxes: Families can sit at the teaching table and investigate a discovery box that contains engaging, hands-on activities about habitats.


HOURS:  
Monday - Saturday: 10:30 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Sunday: 12 - 3 p.m.

Capacity = 30 visitors at a time

The Nature Nook at the Delaware Museum of Natural History is made possible through generous support from a gift in memory of Tibi du Pont Bredin, a bequest from Aunt Weezie, Jean D. Shehan, and the Philip B. Weymouth, Jr. Family. Bonnie, Lou, Scott, and Ray Rafetto sponsored artist Dan Gotel to create the mural in honor of their parents, Louis and Elaine Rafetto. The technology components in the Nature Nook and the ongoing care of the live animals were underwritten by Walter A. Konyk, III. Additional funding has been provided by the Delaware Museum Association and Wilmington Flower Market. The following volunteers assisted Museum staff members in constructing the Nature Nook and developing educational material: Allen Gu, Rebecca Heyman, Walter A. Konyk, III, Hannah Spencer, and Dan Winklebleck. 

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