Idaho Museum of Natural History announces its fall 2014 programs

The Idaho Museum of Natural History at Idaho State University will be offering classes to K-sixth grade students this fall.

There are two main programs: the Museum Rangers and the Art of Natural History.

Museum Rangers uses fun hands-on activities and behind-the-scenes tours to offer children the chance to learn about the different aspects of museum work. The Art of Natural History will allow kids to explore their creative side with natural history themed arts and crafts.

Museum Rangers classes are $20 per class and the Art of History classes are $25 each. A full class schedule is listed below.

Museum Rangers Classes:

• “Geology: Let’s Study the Earth!” – Oct. 8, third-sixth grade, 2:30-4:30 p.m.; Oct. 10, K-second grade, 3:30-5:30 p.m.

• “Paleontology: Let’s Study Fossils!” – Oct. 13, third-sixth grade, 2:30-4:30 p.m.; Oct. 15, K-second grade, 3:30-5:30 p.m.

• “Anthropology: Let’s Study People!” – Oct. 20, third-sixth grade, 2:30-4:30 p.m.; Oct. 22, K-second grade 3:30-5:30 p.m.

• “Botany: Let’s Study Plants!” ­– Oct. 27, third-sixth grade 2:30-4:30 p.m.; Oct. 29, K-second grade, 3:30-5:30 p.m.

The Art of Natural History Classes:

• “Fossil Art” – Nov. 3, third-sixth grade 2:30-4:30 p.m.; Nov. 5, K-second grade 3:30-5:30 p.m.

• “Gyotaku Fish Painting” – Nov. 10, third-sixth grade, 2:30-4:30 p.m.; Nov. 12, K-second grade, 3:30-5:30 p.m.

• “Native American Bead Craft” – Nov. 17, third-sixth grade 2:30-4:30 p.m.; Nov. 19, K-second grade 3:30-5:30 p.m.

Also offered are a Young Sportsman’s Society program, Free Forestry Field Trip, and Beginning Photography class.

The IMNH has joined up with Idaho Fish and Game to offer a program for kids interested in natural resources and game management. This program includes class activities, hands on experience with scientists, field trips, and a camp out. The classes run Tuesdays and Thursdays from 3:30 to 5 p.m. Sept. 9-23, followed by a camp out Sept. 27-28. Class registration is due Sept. 5.

The IMNH will offer a beginning photography class from noon to 3 p.m. Oct. 4 for adults 18 and older. To register for a class visit www.imnh.isu.edu and click on the “Education” tab.

The Idaho Forest Products Commission has teamed with the IMNH to host a free field trip for children to meet a forester, and learn what it takes to care for Idaho’s forests from noon to 3 p.m., Nov. 1, for third-sixth graders or families.

Also please note that all students must be registered for class at least 24 hours in advance and permission forms for classes must be signed by a parent or guardian.

If you have any questions or would like more information, contact the Idaho Museum of Natural History Education Resources Center at (208) 282-2196 or hansreb3@isu.edu.