Children and their families learned about the important role of beneficial spiders at Budding Gardeners: Spiders Aren’t Scary on October 9.
Four members of the University of Florida Entomology and Nematology Department shared their knowledge about the wide world of spiders and showed off several examples, including a tarantula. The children had many opportunities to see the creatures up close and even hold a few live specimens.
Children learned how to pot their own plants and took home seedlings to grow on the porch and perhaps attract a spider.
Artist Crystal Floyd, who serves as studio director at CoRK Arts District, led an art activity where children created their own rock spiders.
Families enjoyed snacks in the Courtyard, played giant Jenga, tossed cornhole, tried hula hoop, and drew on the Living Beauty Florals Chalk Van, provided by Chanel Lee, a member of the Garden Club’s Board of Trustees and chair of Budding Gardeners.
Budding Gardeners is aimed at children in grades 1-6 to discover gardening, conservation, and wildlife through interactive programs, crafts, and outdoor projects. Children and their parents or caregivers collaborate during a morning of healthy and fun activities.
Look for more Budding Gardeners programs on the Garden Club events page here.