Our philosophy starts with the simple belief that kids are capable of incredible things. Our job is to nurture that ability; our goal is to support kids' healthy development. Play is how kids learn--here, it is in both a STEM-rich environment and inviting outdoor experience.
The Nature Playscape surrounding the Discovery Treehouse has an inclusive and accessible design that welcomes children and families of all ages and abilities to play and learn together. Bounce along the wiggly bridge; sway in the nest swing; scale the climbing net; and explore the woodland nook, rain garden, beaver lodge, and acres of adjoining forest. Natural spaces are full of wonder, possibility and adventure.
Children in Discovery Woods should be adequately supervised by responsible adults at all times. Discovery Woods is an outdoor museum exhibit about nature play and choosing to take “just right” risks. Adult supervision by you helps kids make choices that are right for their age and ability. Some activities might be for “next time” they come.
Observe--and help--our garden grow throughout the year! In Spring we will plant seedlings and in Summer and Fall appreciate the garden's bounty. Explore the multi-sensory nature (touch, smell, and taste!) of the garden, and with our staff, learn about the elements and organisms that help the garden thrive.
The 2021 Discovery Garden is supported by our friends at the Littleton Community Farm.
Take the shortcut in the hairpin turn of the Adventure Path by climbing across the Cargo Net Climb.
Take a short break on the Log Couch carved from a large 200 year old white oak tree.
Climb into a cozy nest swing with a friend or two to swing and watch the sky.
Pretend you're an animal or peek out of a cozy hideaway made of natural materials.
Peek into a birdhouse, who's been there? See how each bird house is different and designed for specific kinds of birds.
Stand in the middle of a rain garden and observe nature hard at work throughout the seasons. Pollinators buzz from flower to flower in the summer, berries and seeds in the fall provide food for birds and other animals as the weather gets colder, and the rain garden's water loving plants do the important work of filtering the spring rains before they flow into the conservation land.
Photo © Mitchell Green
Pick up a map and continue your adventures and nature exploration into the 182 acre Great Hill Conservation Area.
