Wondrous Roots and Spooky Shoots

Wondrous Roots and Spooky Shoots is a one-day School's Out Camp for kids in grades K-6, held on Tuesday, November 3, at the Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens. The whole day is built around carnivorous plants—how they trap bugs, adapt to harsh environments, and thrive in some of the strangest ways nature comes up with. If you've got a curious kid who likes the weird side of biology, this is right up their alley.

The program mixes indoor and outdoor games, weather permitting, with arts and crafts and science-based activities. There's also time spent in the Conservatory's gardens and biomes, so they'll get to see the plants in person rather than just reading about them. It's a full day of hands-on stuff, not just sitting and listening.

Logistics are straightforward: drop-off is from 9:00 to 9:30 AM and pick-up is from 3:30 to 4:00 PM, both at the Wells Barn, 1777 E. Broad Street. There's no before- or after-care, so you'll want to time your arrival and departure within those windows. Families are asked to pack a lunch—keep in mind there's no refrigeration—and a snack is provided. Space is limited and registration is required in advance, so don't wait until the last minute to sign up.

The camp runs from 9:00 AM to 3:30 PM on Tuesday, November 3, at the Wells Barn. It's $80, or $70 for members.