Paris, Tenn.–Hours of free, summer adventures are on tap for children at the Historic Atkins-Porter Neighborhood Association Botanical Garden. The Association is partnering with the W.G. Rhea Library and the Tennessee National Wildlife Refuge for creative, outdoor experiences for ages K- 6 grade.
“Adventure Begins at Your Library” is the library’s summer reading theme. The fun starts with Children’s Librarian Kayla Nation in the botanical garden at 311 Jackson Street on June 3. Children’s Story Hour will take place each Monday–June 3 – July 1 at 10:30 a.m. Engaging books and exciting activities can be found weekly under the whirling fans of garden’s pavilion.
The homes of forest creatures are the focus of Refuge Ranger Joan Howe’s time with the children as she presents, “Home Sweet Habitat.” Discussions about wetlands and forest habitats, plus hands-on activities will are slated for Thursdays, June 13, 20 and 27 – the last three Thursdays in June – at 10:30 a.m.
“Now in our fourth year of children’s K-6 programing, we are excited that Kayla and Joan, both captivating presenters, will be returning to welcome kiddos to our lovely garden venue,” according to Association President Rachel Terrell. She noted that children must be accompanied by an adult, and adults should bring their own chairs.
“Also relating to education, there is something new in the garden,” Terrell said. “Identification labels have been added to every plant, offering the unique opportunity for families to learn the common names of these flowers and trees.” Terrell invites parents and children to visit the garden throughout the year as the plants change seasonally.
“We so appreciate Kayla and Joan coming to the botanical garden. We hope the library and refuge events at the garden encourage parents and caregivers to take part in other outstanding programs offered on site at our local library and wildlife refuge,” Terrell said. “There are endless things to see and do at the W.G. Rhea Public Library in Downtown Paris and at the Tennessee National Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center, just 15 minutes away. Both are free, fun and engaging for children of all ages.
For more information visit HAPNA of Atkins Porter Neighborhood on Facebook or HAPNA.org.
Photo: The Historic Atkins-Porter Neighborhood Association’s Botanical Garden, 311 Jackson Street will host the summer kids’ series for the fourth year. Photo by Shannon McFarlin.