Getting Outside on Inauguration Weekend

It's likely to be a cold and crowded winter weekend in DC-with thousands of visitors journeying to the Capitol to celebrate the inauguration of our president.  If you aren't planning to attend the inauguration yourself, what better opportunity to bundle up, escape the crowds and do exactly what nobody else will be doing. 

Below are three of my favorite outdoor destinations inside the city limits and ideas of educational conversations to have- with adults or children- while you are there.  These urban green areas are popular in the summer but are much less frequently visited during the other seasons of the year.  Each of these sites is enjoyable for children and adults, and free to the public. 

Let us know what you think!   

1. Pierce Mill: Walk around this historical (and operational) mill and the surrounding Rock Creek Park.  Learn how wheat is turned to flour, and talk to a ranger about how the river powers the mill.

2.  National Arboretum:  Famous for its azalea bloom in the spring, the arboretum is wonderful to explore in the winter as well.  Challenge yourself to identify plant species without bright blooms and berries to guide you.  Can you learn the names of 5 new plants on your visit?  

  

3.  Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens:  The water lilies won't be out this time of year but this is a great place to go for a quiet walk in the outdoors.  Pick a "sit spot"--a quiet, comfortable place where you can sit for 5 minutes and observe your surroundings.  What's growing?  What do you see, smell and hear?  Record your observations.  Plan to return once during each season this year and notice the changes in your sit-spot as the months pass. 

Caption This

Getting our nails done!

We take a LOT of photos of our students --- both in the classroom and on trips. Capturing the perfect shot is hard enough, but we also have to try to encapsulate the moment with just a few words.

Well, we figured we could use your help with some of these. We've posted our caption below the picture, but we'd love to hear yours. Leave a caption in the comments section, and we may choose yours to highlight. Check back next week and feel free to spread the link!