Eclipse Adventure!

MMSD has extra early release this coming Monday, so let's play while we watch the eclipse!

This is an all ages, open-house style playdate. It will be very informal and all kids must come with responsible adult. There's no cost and registration is encouraged, but not required. If you register, I'll send you any important updates, like cancellation if the weather is challenging, but ultimately the adult your child comes with is responsible for them. Let's play and explore together!

In 2017, I was lucky enough to visit totality. It was truly amazing. One thing that stuck me was the response of the birds. I'm very curious how the wildlife will respond to the eclipse in Madison, where we will not be in totality. The total eclipse takes about 2 hours and 20 minutes, from first coverage to last coverage. It peaks at 2:06 PM in Madison. We'll play games, chat, draw, or whatever else the kids bring while we observe the eclipse and its effects on nature.

Thing you should definitely bring:

- lunch and/or snacks

- water

- appropriate layers to stay warm (Remember, it's much more challenging to stay warm outside for hours than for a recess. Bring more layers than you think you'll need, especially if you aren't used to being outside for multiple hours in current temperatures. If it's in the 40s, I'll probably wear snow pants and make my kids bring them. As long as they are running, they will be warm, but if they decide to do something calmer or are stopping to eat, they may need the extra warmth.)

- appropriate sun protection for the weather and the eclipse (You can get eclipse viewing glasses as Warby Parker on State Street for free until supplies run out. If you don't have eclipse viewing glasses, make sure you/your kids don't look at the sun. We can still use things like pinhole projectors to view the eclipse indirectly.)

Things you might want to bring:

- eclipse viewing glasses (with extra to share if you have them)

- a bandana (kids often like to use these for games)

- something to sit on

- a journal with colored pencils or similar

- a pinhole projector: https://www.jpl.nasa.gov/edu/learn/project/how-to-make-a-pinhole-camera/

We'll meet near the lower lot of Hoyt in the field adjacent to the playground.

Thanks! Please reach out with any questions!