Living in a rather large metropolis, it’s easy to forget we are surrounded by nature every day—the intersection between people and wildlife is often overlooked. That’s why we’re building The Backyard, a new play space for young, curious minds up to the kindergarten age. Opening July 20, this new exhibit will allow little learners to expand their horizons by exploring the natural world through play.

Vibrant decor and rich experiences inspired by a quintessential San Diego backyard make The Backyard an inviting space where children five and under can develop essential process skills. Whether animals, minerals, or vegetables captivate your child, they are sure to find an exhibit element that piques their interest and curiosity.

Exhibit highlights include:

• A soft space garden bed (ages 0-2)
  • Modeled after a self-contained garden area, this enclosed, soft space is separated from areas designed for older toddlers and preschoolers. It is an ideal area for infants to work on tummy time, rolling over, and sitting up. Within this space, older infants have an area to practice crawling, walking, and grasping different textures.
• An old oak tree (ages 2-5)
  • Children will embody imaginative, dramatic, and realistic play as they dress like familiar backyard animals and crawl on a giant ladybug. Self-directed play can take many forms as kids build block structures, color mix on the light table, and uncover hidden sounds and live animals in the garden wall.
• A potting shed (ages 2-5)
  • Adults can relax and recharge on plush bench seating with free WiFi and charging station while kids exercise fine motor skills and build imaginations as they create and pot flowers, read books, solve puzzles, and sort shapes.

Parents or caregivers can actively participate with children or sit, relax, and observe with a beverage from The Flying Squirrel Café. This exhibit will be free for members and included with general admission. Stay tuned for additional updates on our social media channels (Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter).

Posted by Citizen Science Manager Lauren Marino Perez.