WILD at The Preserve – Backbone Bonanza

Based on Texas Parks and Wildlife’s Project WILD curriculum -WILD at The Preserve- is an outdoor class series where learners experience nature in the early years of life. Parents and caregivers accompany their children during each class as the program explores and introduces environmental concepts of West Texas, and beyond. Participants are encouraged to engage in hands-on activities that foster a deep connection with the natural world. Each session is designed to spark curiosity and a sense of wonder, whether it’s through discovering the intricacies of local flora and fauna, participating in guided nature walks, or engaging in creative play that emphasizes environmental stewardship.

The program aims to instill a lifelong appreciation for nature and cultivate an understanding of the importance of conservation. Educators are trained to create an inclusive and supportive atmosphere where every child and adult can feel safe to explore and ask questions. With a focus on experiential learning, WILD at The Preserve ensures that participants leave with not only knowledge but cherished memories and a stronger bond with the environment. By the end of the series, families will have gained valuable skills and insights that they can apply in their everyday lives, promoting sustainable practices and a deeper respect for the ecosystems that surround them. The program highlights the beauty and diversity of West Texas landscapes, encouraging a collective effort to preserve these natural treasures for future generations.

Backbone Bonanza is a lesson that explores concepts of animals that can be divided into two categories: vertebrates or invertebrates. This engaging and educational journey begins by examining the defining characteristics of vertebrates, which include animals with a backbone, such as mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, and fish. Students will learn about the skeletal structures that support these creatures and the various adaptations that allow them to thrive in diverse environments. The lesson then delves into the fascinating world of invertebrates, creatures that lack a backbone. This category encompasses a wide array of animals, from insects and arachnids to mollusks and crustaceans. The lesson highlights the unique biological features and survival strategies of invertebrates, showcasing their incredible diversity and importance in ecosystems. Through interactive activities, and visual aids, Backbone Bonanza aims to foster a deep understanding and appreciation of the animal kingdom. Students will have the opportunity to compare and contrast vertebrates and invertebrates, exploring how these classifications help scientists study and conserve wildlife. By the end of the lesson, learners will be equipped with knowledge about the structural differences and similarities between these two groups of animals, as well as the roles they play in the natural world. This foundational understanding will inspire curiosity and respect for the rich tapestry of life that inhabits our planet.

This season there are 2 rostered classes, one meeting at 9:30 am and the other at 11:00 am. Currently, the roster is full, to join the waiting list visit our website. If you are part of the Fall 2024 roster and need to contact the educator or are interested in leading your own WILD at The Preserve experiences you can reach Kari Warden at kari@i20wp.org.