The Land Labs are a cooperative effort between Kettering’s K-5 teachers and the City to enhance the science curriculum and to provide outdoor experiences for students. A trip to one of the Land Labs brings Science to life!  What are Land Labs all about? 

           With the help of Kerri Miles, Land Lab Coordinator, teachers facilitate a morning or afternoon program at Southdale Nature Center or Pondview Park Land Lab, both just a short bus ride away. Southdale has an indoor nature classroom and trails through native woodlands and wetlands. Pondview has 4 habitat areas: woods, prairie, pond and wetlands, with connected trails through each and a dock for pond interaction. Wildlife abounds at each park. Activities and materials are ready when classes arrive, and teachers lead students through lessons that address the Ohio standards in Science. There are also pre- and post-activities to extend the lessons back to the classroom.

Parent involvement is essential. Several volunteer parents accompany classes to the Land Labs and actually lead and participate in activities. All lesson details are sent home for preparation so parents can engage in lessons and activities. Fall, Winter and Spring programs are available. It’s a learning experience the kids are excited about all year because nature is their classroom!

If you have questions, would like to know more or become a volunteer, contact Kerri Miles at (937) 974-3880 or via email:  kerri.miles@ketteringoh.org

To access the land lab calendar, click here.

https://www.playkettering.org/land-lab-program/