Zenobia Barlow, “Confluence of Streams”
"Children are born with a sense of wonder and an affinity for Nature.  Properly cultivated, these values can mature into ecological literacy, and eventually into sustainable patterns of living."

Thomas Berry, The Dream of the Earth
"Teaching children about the natural world should be seen as one of the most important events in their lives."


The above quotes pretty much sum up what I see as the mission of our farm.
To provide young and old with experiences that will teach them 
to love the natural world and incorporate that love into their own lives,
so that they will live in a way as to protect and preserve our precious earth and all of 
its inhabitants.


And that is precisely why I always jump at the chance to have young
visitors here at the farm.
Yesterday we had six preschoolers visit us.


We took a long walk with the dogs...


  and visited with the animals...


We gathered eggs and watched the ducks swim.
We threw sticks into the pond for Maddie (our Newfie) to retrieve.

Each child had his/her favorite animal,
but also was fascinated by the small things,
 like stones and feathers and nuts,
and our collection of birds nests.

We had a wonderful time,
and sure hope Miss Stephanie will bring the kids back for another visit some time!

PS....
a new kitty has moved into the barn.
This sweet, friendly (but skinny) tiger cat has been coming for meal time.
If she/he stays, we will have Dr. Becky examine her/him,
vaccinate and neuter if needed.

It may be another mouth to feed,
but it is also another life that needs a little loving...
something we have plenty of here on the farm!
(If he/she is here later today, I will try to get a picture.)

Comments

andy said…
Looks like a fun day
Lynne said…
Wonderful teachable moments . . . Care, kindness, giving, inclusive, habits, variety, sharing, touch, texture . . . the little ones will be talking about their visit for a long time!
jaz@octoberfarm said…
i know i always say this but you create magical memories. you are a magical memory maker!
Country Gal said…
Wonderful photos ! I bet the kids were just thrilled to be there I know I would be . It is good for kids to interact with nature and have a sense of how important it is ! Have a good day !
This N That said…
Thanks for sharing the farm !!! It's a wonderful experience for those who might never have it...
Rebecca said…
How fun the kids can come and enjoy life on the farm! A new cat has arrived? Do you have feral (wild) cats around your area? We have them here near me at the farm, I find them interesting.
Anonymous said…
I love young visitors! It's always so much fun to see them discover the joys of the farm and animals.
Katmom said…
speaking of 'another mouth to feed'...Meri has 4 new mouths... they just rescued 4 stray kittens.... never a dull moment 'on the farm'... hugs to you & Meri for having hearts of gold.
>^..^<
Hi Bev,
I think it is just wonderful that you invite the children to explore the farm.. Great photos!
Wishing you a beautiful week.
Penny