Libraries & Museums
Vermont ’ s Turkeys ” program , also catering to grades K-2 and 3-4 , immerses students in the history , habitat , life cycle , and behavior of Vermont ’ s wild turkeys . Throughout the year , similar programs provide young learners with opportunities to connect with nature , fostering curiosity and understanding of the natural world . Their website is often updated with new programming as the season develops , so be sure to stay tuned for more !
Merck Forest & Farmland Center
3270 VT-315 , Rupert , VT 05768 Merckforest . org
Merck Forest & Farmland Center in Rupert , Vermont , offers a unique blend of farm and forest experiences , providing a wide range of learning opportunities . Spanning 60 acres of meticulously-managed farmland and wild forest landscapes , Merck Forest serves as both a working landscape and an educational hub . Rooted in a legacy of sustainable land stewardship , the farm integrates low-impact , ecologically-sensitive practices , ensuring harmony with the surrounding natural environment . From the humane management of animals like pigs , sheep , chickens , and horses to the preservation of forest habitats through sustainable logging , Merck Forest embodies a holistic approach to land management .
The farm ’ s educational offerings extend beyond its daily operations , with immersive programs like Kits and Cubs , a preschool / toddler and caregiver meet-up group held on Mondays and Wednesdays . This program invites participants to explore themed nature exploration , activities , songs , story time , and take-home crafts . Additionally , Merck Forest ’ s summer camp sessions provide children with unforgettable experiences in nature , with each week-long session offering unique adventures on the farm ’ s diverse landscapes . From pond exploration and berry picking to hands-on encounters with farm animals and creative craft projects , campers engage in a wide array of activities designed to spark curiosity and foster a sense of natural wonder .
Lake Paran
269 Houghton St ., North Bennington , VT 05257 Lakeparanvt . org
Lake Paran in North Bennington , Vermont , offers ample opportunities for healthy family fun . Operated by Paran Recreations , a locallyrun nonprofit organization , the lake offers a wide assortment of seasonal activities , including swimming with lifeguards on duty , canoe and kayak rentals , and sand volleyball . With a small beach , floating raft , and ample lawn space , the summer season at Lake Paran invites visitors to immerse themselves in the beauty of nature . Established in 1960 by dedicated North Bennington residents , Paran Recreations has deep roots in the community , serving as a gathering place for multiple generations . The organization ’ s commitment to community accessibility is reflected in its offerings , including school break recreation camps like the Spring Break Recreation Camp . Designed for grades K-6 , this camp offers a week of outdoor education , fostering social and emotional connections among campers . Activities range from canoeing and fishing to meeting baby animals and discovering insects , providing enriching experiences for all .
The MAYCA Studio
160 Benmont Ave ., Bennington themaycastudio . com
The MAYCA Studio in Bennington offers children and teens the opportunity to learn healthy lifestyle habits through athletics while fostering positive friendships . The studio provides affordable cheerleading , baton , and gymnastics classes to local youth , along with studio and lake summer camps , birthday parties , and playgroups . Catering to children from 2 years old through 12th grade , the studio offers a variety of programs including recreational and competitive cheerleading , baton twirling , floor and apparatus gymnastics , as well as private lessons . With a commitment to supporting healthy lifestyle habits and promoting physical fitness , The MAYCA Studio is dedicated to empowering children and teens to thrive both on and off the mat in a vibrant community environment .
Libraries & Museums
For additional family fun and educational programming , look no further than Southern Vermont ’ s libraries and museums !! With a wide assortment of play groups , activities , storybook readings , and community events throughout the year , parents and young children will always have something to smile about .
Bennington Free Library
101 Silver St ., Bennington , VT 05201 Benningtonfreelibrary . org
Bennington Museum
75 Main St ., Bennington , VT 05201 Benningtonmuseum . org
Dorset Village Library
13 Church St ., Dorset , VT 05251 Dorsetvillagelibrary . org
John G . McCullough Free Library
2 Main St ., North Bennington , VT 05257 Mcculloughlibrary . org
Manchester Community Library
138 Cemetery Ave . Manchester , VT 05255 Mclvt . org
Martha Canfield Library
528 East Arlington Rd ., Arlington , VT 05250 Marthacanfieldlibrary . org
Southern Vermont Arts Center
860 SVAC Drive / West Road Manchester , VT 05254 SVAC . org manchester life magazine 2023 69