Calendar
In a total of 10 classes (25 hours of instruction), this series covers everything you want to know about growing vegetables. Topics include the advantages of organic and ecological approaches over chemicals; vegetable garden design; irrigation and drainage; soil fertility, mulches and composts; organic pest control; seeds, transplants, where to get them and how to plant them. The last half is a detailed discussion of selecting, growing and using the many varieties of vegetables, annual herbs, and melons.
Those who complete the class will become certified Organic Vegetable Specialists.
This is a series of ten classes and may not be taken individually. Assignments for the class include the reading of Dr. Bob Randall’s book, Year Round Vegetables, Fruits and Flowers for Metro-Houston. Cost of the book is $45.
SCHEDULE
Thursdays, 2018 from 6:30pm to 9pm
Class 1 – January 18
Class 2 – January 25
Class 3 – February 8
Class 4 – February 22
Class 5 – March 8
Class 6 – March 22
Class 7 – April 5
Class 8 – April 19
Class 9 – May 3
Class 10 – May 17
For an in-depth schedule, go to Spring 2018 class schedule and description.
DIRECTIONS AND PARKING
I-45 S, exit Cullen, go south, enter University of Houston campus, proceed through Elgin, Holman, Entrance 14 and Entrance 13, Cougar Place, turn left at Wheeler, take first right into driveway – park to the left of Lot 9C(although it says permit required, we have permission) Follow Urban Harvest signs back to Wheeler at Cullen. Walk north along Cullen, pass entrance 13 Cougar Village and follow the Urban Harvest signs to the classroom
For more classes by Urban Harvest, view their Upcoming Classes.
Looking for a place to get your children outdoors? ABNC’s EcoClasses will allow your child to explore, discover and observe (STEM). Join them for some great nature experiences! Check out their website at abnc.org for details or call 713-274-2668 to reserve your spot.
EcoTots are for children 18-36 months with an adult every Friday.
EcoKids are for children ages 3-6 every Wednesday and Friday.
EcoSchoolers are for homeschool children ages 7-10 every Wednesday and Friday.  EcoAdventurers are for children ages 11-14 every Wednesday.
Please bring a Snack, Refillable Water Bottle, mask, closed toe shoes and dress for the weather.
Naturalist Explorers introduces children ages 5 to 8 to environmental and natural history topics in a fun and enthusiastic atmosphere. Classes include a short introduction inside followed by handsâ€on, engaging activities outside. Parents are welcome to participate with their child or to drop them off.
Schedule: One Saturday a month, 9:00-11:00 a.m.
Fees per student: $20 members* / $35 nonmembers per class
*Must be a Family Tree Member or above for member rate.
Spring 2018: Amazing Adaptations
Adaptation is a natural process in which a species becomes better suited to its habitat. Adaptations can be found throughout nature. Together we will learn how organisms survive, hunt, grow, and thrive because of their special and fascinating features.
January 6: Camouflage
Some predators and prey use camouflage to hide while other animals are brightly colored for all to see. Come explore the Arboretum and look at live animals to learn the pros and cons of camouflage and flashy coverings. Register Online
February 3: Locomotion
For some species, speed and stealth are necessary for survival. How an animal moves when catching food or escaping a predator is important! We will see if we can walk on silent tiptoes like a fox, climb like squirrels, hop like frogs, and run as fast as the cougar. Register Online
March 3: Armor
Many animals come with ready-made suits of armor: from mighty mollusks and turtles to well-protected porcupines and hedgehogs. Investigate these special adaptations for survival with some friendly snails, roly-polies, and turtles. Register Online
April 7: Migration
Birds and butterflies migrate, but so do many other animals. Learn about the astounding distances they travel, and the fascinating ways they know how, when, and where to go. Register Online
May 5: Metamorphosis
Many animals change their looks as they grow. Using microscopes and hand lenses, we’ll discover the extreme makeovers that some animals undergo, and how this helps them to survive. Register Online
Tadpole Troopers is a nature class and outdoor adventure for parents and children to share together. We offer opportunities for natural science investigations, crafts, and a guided walk with a naturalist. All classes begin with an engaging introductory lesson inside a classroom followed by a walk outside. Parents are required to stay for the duration of class with their child. Siblings are not permitted unless they are also registered for the class.
This spring, explore the wild world of reptiles. We will learn what makes these creatures special, what some of their amazing adaptations are, and will meet a reptile in each class. From snakes to turtles, we will use fun activities and songs to get to know our reptile friends even better.
Schedule: One Saturday a month from 9:00 – 10:15 am or 10:30 – 11:45 am
Fees per student:Â $16 member* / $32 nonmember per class
*Must be a Family Tree Member or above for member rate.
Spring 2018 – Outrageous Reptiles
January 6: Reptile Super Power
What is a Reptile? Tadpole Troopers will discuss what makes reptiles different from other animals. We will also learn what an adaptation is, and discuss some of the amazing adaptations that reptiles have. Students will even meet one of the most interesting reptiles up close – the Chameleon. Register Online
February 3: Turtles Forever
Turtles, one of the oldest reptiles, will be coming to visit the Tadpole Troopers in this class. We will discover the variety of turtles living at the Arboretum and observe them up close. We will go out on a turtle search and try to track down these shelled reptiles. Register Online
March 3: Snakes, Snakes & More Snakes
Snakes are waking up from their winter nap and can be found everywhere at the Arboretum, but don’t let that scare you away from this class. We will meet some of our resident snakes and then go on a hike to see if we can spot any in the wild. Register Online
April 7: Leapin’ Lizards
Lizards come in all shapes and sizes. We will meet several lizards this class and talk about how and why they are different. From sticky toe pads to detachable tails, lizards are truly amazing reptiles. Register Online
May 5: See You Later Alligator
Our last reptile is the biggest of the bunch; the alligator. We will dive into the world of these giant reptiles and learn what makes them so special. We will take a walk to some of the spots they’ve been sighted and learn why they have such a huge reputation. Register Online
Tadpole Troopers is a nature class and outdoor adventure for parents and children to share together. We offer opportunities for natural science investigations, crafts, and a guided walk with a naturalist. All classes begin with an engaging introductory lesson inside a classroom followed by a walk outside. Parents are required to stay for the duration of class with their child. Siblings are not permitted unless they are also registered for the class.
This spring, explore the wild world of reptiles. We will learn what makes these creatures special, what some of their amazing adaptations are, and will meet a reptile in each class. From snakes to turtles, we will use fun activities and songs to get to know our reptile friends even better.
Schedule: One Saturday a month from 9:00 – 10:15 am or 10:30 – 11:45 am
Fees per student:Â $16 member* / $32 nonmember per class
*Must be a Family Tree Member or above for member rate.
Spring 2018 – Outrageous Reptiles
January 6: Reptile Super Power
What is a Reptile? Tadpole Troopers will discuss what makes reptiles different from other animals. We will also learn what an adaptation is, and discuss some of the amazing adaptations that reptiles have. Students will even meet one of the most interesting reptiles up close – the Chameleon. Register Online
February 3: Turtles Forever
Turtles, one of the oldest reptiles, will be coming to visit the Tadpole Troopers in this class. We will discover the variety of turtles living at the Arboretum and observe them up close. We will go out on a turtle search and try to track down these shelled reptiles. Register Online
March 3: Snakes, Snakes & More Snakes
Snakes are waking up from their winter nap and can be found everywhere at the Arboretum, but don’t let that scare you away from this class. We will meet some of our resident snakes and then go on a hike to see if we can spot any in the wild. Register Online
April 7: Leapin’ Lizards
Lizards come in all shapes and sizes. We will meet several lizards this class and talk about how and why they are different. From sticky toe pads to detachable tails, lizards are truly amazing reptiles. Register Online
May 5: See You Later Alligator
Our last reptile is the biggest of the bunch; the alligator. We will dive into the world of these giant reptiles and learn what makes them so special. We will take a walk to some of the spots they’ve been sighted and learn why they have such a huge reputation. Register Online
Our home school classes are offered on Mondays from 1:00-3:00 p.m. for students ages 5-12. A different three-week science unit is taught each month, with classes consisting of instructional time, hands-on activities, and outdoor activities. Extension ideas will be provided to parents so they can follow up with lessons and activities at home.
Visit our Home School Blog at www.HouArbHomeSchool.wordpress.com to see what Home Schoolers have been up to!
Schedule: Three Mondays a month from 1:00 – 3:00 p.m. (classes for ages 5, 6 – 7, 8 – 9, and 10 – 12)
Fees per student:Â $60 member** / $90 nonmember per three-week unit
**Must be a Family Tree Member or above for member rate.
Please note: Additional Parents and siblings may not attend class. Those who wish to go out on a nature hike may do so on a special basis by discussing with instructors. *Attendee(s) must be mature enough to participate in the program(s) without parental or guardian supervision.Â
Registration note:Â Parents, when registering for multiple months, please register your child in the same age group for the entire semester. Â Thank you!
As part of your registration, you will also receive email updates from our Home School Blog with information and pictures showing you what the students did in class, take home activities to continue learning at home, and updates about the Home School Program in general.
January 8, 22, 29: Body Systems I
The human body is amazing! Come learn how our body systems compare to other animal’s bodies – like a frog! We will dissect a frog in class to examine the different body parts. Register Online
February 5, 19, 26: Body Systems II
This month we continue learning more about body systems. Do mammals breathe the same way as fish? Does a sheep’s heart look like ours? Join us as we explore more about bodies! Register Online
March 5, 19, 26: Urban Farming
Chickens in your backyard? Fresh vegetables from your own garden? Urban farms are sprouting up all over the city! Learn how you can be eco-friendly, save money, and reconnect with nature by creating an urban farm of your own. Register Online
April 9, 16, 23: Geology Rocks!
Rocks, soil, and water are all a part of our physical environment here on earth. This month we will explore how rocks and soil are formed, use stream tables to study geomorphology, and even make our own crystals! Register Online
May 7, 14, 21: Curious Concoctions
Chemistry isn’t just for scientists in labs! Chemistry can be found even in your home and the natural world just outside the door. Find out where you can see chemistry in action as we conduct experiments using the scientific method. Register Online
Interactive program times (CST): 9:00 AM, 10:15 AM, 12:30 PM, and 2:00 PM
Non-interactive program times (CST): 9:00 AM, 10:15 AM, 12:30 PM, and 2:00 PM
TWA’s Youth Videoconferencing is:
- Free, interactive, curriculum-enhancing, natural resource programs
- Designed for Grades 1-6, TEKS-aligned K-8
- 45 minute programs (includes student Q&A)
- TEKS aligned post activities and worksheets
Registration closes one week prior to program date. Each program time has 4 Interactive and 50 Non-interactive spots available.
- April 10th (Tu) – Bats-A-Billion
- April 20th (F) – The Magic of Monarchs
- Â April 24th (Tu) – Fox Facts
- May 2nd (W) – Aquatic Insect Investigation
- Â May 17th (Th) – Reptile Lifestyle
- Â May 22nd (Tu) – Prickly Porcupines
For more information, visit texas-wildlife.org.
Looking for a place to get your children outdoors? ABNC’s EcoClasses will allow your child to explore, discover and observe (STEM). Join them for some great nature experiences! Check out their website at abnc.org for details or call 713-274-2668 to reserve your spot.
EcoTots are for children 18-36 months with an adult every Friday.
EcoKids are for children ages 3-6 every Wednesday and Friday.
EcoSchoolers are for homeschool children ages 7-10 every Wednesday and Friday.  EcoAdventurers are for children ages 11-14 every Wednesday.
Please bring a Snack, Refillable Water Bottle, mask, closed toe shoes and dress for the weather.
Nature experiences for preschoolers!
Science Sprouts is an exciting series for curious kids who love nature and science. Classes will include a short lesson on the topic of the day, followed by a nature walk on the trails of the Arboretum. Each class will have a fun mixture of games, live animals, biofacts, crafts, story time, or music. Parents are welcome to participate with their child or simply drop them off.
Dates and Topics
- February 1 – Cool Critters
- February 8 – Rock N Roll
- February 22 – Parts of a Plant
- March 1 – Beautiful Birds
- March 8 – Egg’stravaganza
- March 15 – SPRING BREAK – NO CLASS
- March 22 – Mammal Babies & More
- March 29 – SSSS Snakes
- April 5 – Leapin’ Lizards
- April 12 – NO CLASS
- April 19 – Far Out Frogs
- April 26 – Totally Turtles
- May 3 – Interesting Insects
- May 10 – Pond Pals
Cost: $225 members*/$350 non-members for the semester
*Must be a Family Tree Member or above for member rate.
Note: You must enroll for the entire semester in order to participate
Register Now!
For more information, visit houstonarboretum.org.
610 Entrance now open. Woodway Entrance closed until late Spring 2018. Map and directions available.
Looking for a place to get your children outdoors? ABNC’s EcoClasses will allow your child to explore, discover and observe (STEM). Join them for some great nature experiences! Check out their website at abnc.org for details or call 713-274-2668 to reserve your spot.
EcoTots are for children 18-36 months with an adult every Friday.
EcoKids are for children ages 3-6 every Wednesday and Friday.
EcoSchoolers are for homeschool children ages 7-10 every Wednesday and Friday.  EcoAdventurers are for children ages 11-14 every Wednesday.
Please bring a Snack, Refillable Water Bottle, mask, closed toe shoes and dress for the weather.