This week, our Little Leaf Explorers got outside to dive into one of nature’s most beautiful lessons — leaves!

We kicked off our adventures at Clemmons Educational State Forest, where families followed the Talking Tree Trail, learned how to identify different trees like Yellow Poplar, Red Maple, and Loblolly Pine, and collected forest treasures along the way. Our explorers used field guides to match real leaves to their trees and then rolled up their sleeves for a hands-on STEAM activity to learn all about the anatomy of a leaf. From veins and petioles , our young naturalists got a close look at how leaves help trees “breathe” and grow.

Next, we brought the program to Fred G. Bond Metro Park, where five families joined us for another morning of exploration and learning. We hunted for leaves of all shapes and colors, practiced using observation skills, and discovered how each leaf tells a story about the tree it came from. It was amazing to see kids and parents alike light up as they learned side-by-side, turning a simple walk in the park into a shared science adventure.

The Little Leaf Explorers program is part of Trail Mamas’ free, family-friendly environmental education series designed to help kids connect with nature through curiosity, play, and exploration. Each session includes guided hikes, hands-on learning, and creative STEAM activities to make science fun and accessible for all ages.

We’re so thankful for the wonderful families who joined us this week — your excitement and curiosity make these adventures so special! 🌱

👉 Next up: We’ll be exploring the world of insects in our upcoming It’s a Bug’s Life session — come learn what makes an insect an insect and create your very own bug from forest finds!

Stay tuned to our Facebook group for registration details and future program dates or check out the events tab. Let’s keep raising a generation of little explorers who love, respect, and protect the world around them. 💚