Join CU Maurice River and WheatonArts & Cultural Center in August for a four-week summer program that connects kids with the natural world through science, art, and observation!
From August 5 to August 27 2026, youth ages 6 and up are invited to explore the outdoors, discover local wildlife, and grow their creative skills through the art of nature journaling. Sessions are held twice a week on Wednesdays and Thursdays, 8:30 to 11 am, and are designed to blend hands-on environmental learning with artistic expression.
All materials are provided free of charge thanks to support from CU Maurice River and the National Park Service’s Wild and Scenic Rivers Program. This program aims to inspire a lifelong connection to the Maurice River’s unique natural values and to foster a sense of place in the next generation of Down Jersey stewards. At the end of the course, each participant will have the opportunity to contribute a final journal entry to the WheatonArts Urban Oasis, an interconnected system of upland pollinator spaces and rain gardens. Students are expected to attend both days each week, and parents are welcome to join in. |
Wednesdays - Nature Walks
Each Wednesday, students venture into local natural spaces along with CU Maurice River Program Manager Julia Cassaday and volunteer educators. Through sensory exploration, scientific observation, and guided journaling, kids will learn about plants, animals, habitats, and ecosystems—all while playing and discovering in the great outdoors.
Thursdays - Studio Time
On Thursdays, students gather at WheatonArts for an art session led by instructor Linda Robinson. Here, field sketches and outdoor discoveries are transformed into full nature journal entries. Using a variety of techniques, students will refine their drawings, add notes and observations, and bring their pages to life with creativity and curiosity. |
WHAT
Nature Journaling Youth Summer Program
WHEN
August 5 & 6, 2026
August 12 & 13, 2026
August 19 & 20, 2026
August 26 & 27, 2026
COST
All inclusive fee of $10.00
REGISTRATION REQUIRED
Register at Registration Options
Application deadline: June 30, 2026 |
CU Maurice River at a Glance
Citizens United to Protect the Maurice River and Its Tributaries, Inc. (CU Maurice River) is dedicated to protecting the watershed of the Maurice River and the region known as Down Jersey, thereby enabling current and future generations to enjoy the environmental, recreational, cultural, and scenic resources of this Wild & Scenic global treasure.
CU Maurice River empowers individuals, organizations, and neighboring communities to promote the region’s enduring well-being and quality of life. CU Maurice River invites participation and fosters responsible stewardship. CU Maurice River supports education, awareness, and informed decision-making utilizing fieldwork, research, and advocacy.
Follow this link to learn more about Program Manager Julia Cassaday. You can contact her at J.Wiberg@CUMauriceRiver.org or (856) 300-5331. |
More about Linda Robinson ...
Art has always been an integral part of my life and an expression of myself. The personal and professional aspects of my life have been a creative artistic adventure that I truly enjoy!
I have an Art Education degree from Temple University/Tyler School of Art in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. After moving from Philadelphia, I taught art for 31 years in the Millville Public Schools (1982-2013). I most enjoyed sharing my excitement, enthusiasm, and love for the arts with the students.
My work is exhibited in southern New Jersey galleries and many private collections. In 1990, I began using pastels in plein air. These have been on exhibit since 2010 until now. The beauty of Down Jersey landscapes and environment inspire my work. |
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