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Our Children | Spring 2022
PHOTO: THE DISCOVERY CENTRE
Before the pandemic, an excursion to the Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21 was a highlight of the school year for many local students. The historic site where so many people first arrived in Canada is closed until at least March, but continues to offer top-notch programming, including virtual field trips on topics like “Where are you really from?” and “Welcoming newcomers.” pier21.ca/learn/museum/program-information#virtual
Out and about Spots like the Discovery Centre, Art Gallery of Nova Scotia, and Museum of Natural History are local family favourites, especially during March Break. While COVID-19 has made schedules and event details a moving target, many attractions are operating through the pandemic, marrying exhibits and activities with public health precautions. On their websites, you’ll find all the information you need to prepare for your visit. Plan on reduced hours, physical distancing, and mask wearing, and expect safetyminded changes to some regular exhibitions. Plan ahead and you’ll find an ideal escape for a blustery spring weekend. Feel safer at home? You’ll also find activities and resources aplenty on their websites: thediscoverycentre.ca, artgalleryofnovascotia. ca, naturalhistory.novascotia.ca
PHOTO: CANADIAN MUSEUM OF IMMIGRATION AT PIER 21
Virtual field trips
Eyes on the sky From wild storms to sunny days, the weather endlessly fascinates many kids. If you have a budding meteorologist in your home, Environment Canada is always recruiting Weather Watchers, volunteers who “provide Environment Canada’s forecasters with up-to-the-minute information on severe weather events,” explains the website. “Thousands of individuals from all walks of life have been a part of this vast and valuable network of observers. Weather watchers provide an invaluable service not only to meteorologists, but also to their communities and the general public.” Visit the website to learn more and sign up. canada.ca/en/environmentclimate-change/services/report-severe-weather/watcherprogram.html
School projects, homework, hobbies, and personal interests of all sorts: while pandemic precautions have limited on-site options, Halifax Public Libraries remain busy helping kids learn and grow. On the organization’s website, you'll find a huge archive of at-home resources, including expert Q&As, fun projects, reading suggestions, games, videos, and more. halifaxpubliclibraries.ca/ explore/?programs=libraryonline-kids
PHOTO: DISCOVER HALIFAX
More than books