iSpy at Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens

Program Agenda

1. Welcome and Introduction to Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens: Meet the program facilitators and Park Rangers, review outdoor classroom guidelines, and introduce the concept of multisensory observation. (10:00 – 10:15am)

2. iSpy Briefing and Materials Distribution: Each child receives a laminated iSpy clue sheet and an expo marker. Introduction to the iSpy rules and sensory-based clues (sight, sound, touch, and smell). (10:15 – 10:25am)

3. Group Sensory Warm-up: A short activity to “wake up” the senses (e.g., listen quietly, feel the grass, describe a scent). (10:25 – 10:30am)

4. Guided iSpy Game (10:30am – 11:15am): Explore designated areas of the gardens, working individually or in small groups, to solve iSpy clues using provided sheets:
Visual: Find “something shaped like a star” or “a flower with more than five petals”
Tactile: “Touch something bumpy without picking it” or “trace the curve of a leaf”
Scent: “Smell something sweet” or “identify a natural scent that reminds you of summer”
Auditory: “Sit and listen—what birds or water sounds can you hear?”

5. Share Discoveries (11:15 – 11:25am): Gather to discuss observations, share favorite clues, and reflect on the experience.

6. Wrap-up & Clean-up (11:25 – 11:30am): Collect markers and sheets, thank participants and rangers, and remind everyone how to continue exploring nature with all their senses at home or school.