Suwon Irlwol Arboretum Recruiting Participants for 'Kids Explorer' Program

Suwon's Irlwol Arboretum is recruiting families to participate in the children's ecological exploration program 'Kids Explorer' through August 30.

Kids Explorer is a family-participation ecological experience program operated by Irlwol Arboretum in cooperation with the Korea National Arboretum and National Geographic Apparel Kids. Children and their guardians follow an exploration map to navigate various locations throughout the arboretum, observe diverse organisms, and complete missions.

The program will be held twice on September 19 at Irlwol Arboretum. The first session runs from 10 a.m. to noon, and the second from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Participants will complete various observation and play missions at 9 locations within the arboretum, including △making autumn spinning tops with acorns △crafting sailboats with willow leaves △observing characteristics of stag beetles and rhinoceros beetles △learning the differences between water lilies and lotus flowers △observing the hunting methods of carnivorous plants △carbon neutrality quizzes △and potting plants.

Upon completing missions at each location, participants receive stamps to complete their exploration map. Experiences include activities using natural materials and family problem-solving.

Eligible participants are families consisting of one elementary school student in grades 3-6 and one guardian. A total of 60 teams will be selected by lottery, with 30 teams per session. The program is free.

Families wishing to participate should add the 'National Geographic Apparel Kids' KakaoTalk channel as a friend by August 30, then apply through the 'Kids Explorer Application' menu at the bottom of the chat room. Selection results will be announced individually via text message on September 3.

Admission to Irlwol Arboretum for one child and one guardian, as well as parking for one vehicle, are free of charge. The program operates even in rainy weather, though it may be cancelled in the event of severe weather such as typhoons.

An Irlwol Arboretum official stated, "This will be an opportunity for children to observe plants and organisms in the arboretum and view nature from a new perspective," adding, "We hope families will explore the arboretum together and create special memories in nature."