Backyard Learning

May 2025

We Love Bugs at Old Westbury Garden!

Every month in Backyard Learning, we showcase a unique aspect of Old Westbury Gardens’ educational programming. Through articles and activities, we aim to foster a deeper connection with nature—even when you’re not physically at the Gardens.

This month, we’re highlighting our upcoming Bug Safari Saturday on May 10 at 11am, featuring a special guest: Entomologist Jeffry Petracca. To get ready, we’ve prepared a fun quiz to help you discover what type of bug you are!

But first, let’s delve into the fascinating world of bugs.

The term “bug” is commonly used to describe a variety of small creatures, including insects, arachnids, and even some tiny vertebrates. While some might find them unsettling, these organisms play crucial roles in our ecosystems. They pollinate plants, decompose organic matter, and serve as food for other animals, maintaining the balance of nature.

On Long Island, we’re fortunate to have a diverse array of beneficial and intriguing bugs right in our own backyards. Some of our favorites include bees, butterflies, beetles, and ants. Here’s a closer look at each:

Meet Entomologist Jeffry Petracca

We’re thrilled to have Jeffry Petracca leading our Bug Safari. Jeffry is an experienced entomologist and educator, known for his engaging presentations and deep knowledge of insects and arachnids. He has served as the curator of entomology at the Long Island Aquarium’s Butterfly and Insect Zoo in Riverhead, NY, and is an educator at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory’s DNA Learning Center .

During the Bug Safari, Jeffry will introduce participants to a variety of fascinating creatures, including giant stick bugs, beetles, tarantulas, and scorpions. Attendees will learn about each animal’s unique adaptations and ecological roles, with opportunities for hands-on interactions .

After exploring the world of our local bugs, don’t forget to take our “Which Bug Are You?” quiz below to see which backyard creature matches your personality. Are you a busy bee, a graceful butterfly, a resilient beetle, or a strategic ant? Then, join us in person for Bug Safari Saturday to meet some real-life insects and experience the wonders of Old Westbury Gardens like never before.

Which Bug Are You?

Take this quiz and find out which buggy buddy matches your personality before Bug Safari Saturday!

1. What’s your perfect weekend plan?
A. Buzzing around and helping out friends
B. Fluttering through the garden and soaking in the sun
C. Exploring cool places and collecting tiny treasures
D. Building a fort and organizing a team mission

2. What’s your favorite snack?
A. A spoonful of something sweet
B. Fresh fruit
C. Chips, or anything crunchy
D. Sandwiches packed for the whole crew

3. How do your friends describe you?
A. Cheerful and helpful
B. Calm and creative
C. Adventurous and strong
D. Smart and dependable

4. What’s your favorite color?
A. Sunny yellow
B. Sky blue
C. Earthy green
D. Bold red

5. Choose a hobby:
A. Gardening or buzzing from task to task
B. Drawing, dancing, or daydreaming
C. Digging, climbing, or treasure hunting
D. Building things or solving puzzles with friends

6. What’s your dream home like?
A. A busy, buzzing hive full of friends
B. A peaceful garden with lots of flowers
C. A secret nook under a log
D. An underground city with tunnels and teamwork

7. Pick a superpower:
A. Spreading sweetness and positivity
B. Gliding through the air in style
C. Lifting 50x your weight (no problem!)
D. Working with perfect precision

8. What’s your favorite time of day?
A. Early morning when the flowers bloom
B. A sunny afternoon breeze
C. Anytime—it’s always a good time for an adventure
D. Midday when everyone’s working together

Tally your answers!

• Mostly A’s: You’re a Bee!
  Busy, brave, and always buzzing with purpose! You’re loyal, kind, and love making things better for others.
• Mostly B’s: You’re a Butterfly!
  Graceful and full of imagination, you bring beauty and calm wherever you go. You love to flutter free!
• Mostly C’s: You’re a Beetle!
  Strong, curious, and cool—you’re a bold explorer with a love for nature and tiny treasures.
• Mostly D’s: You’re an Ant!
  Hardworking and super smart, you thrive in teams, love solving problems, and always have a plan.Now that you’ve found your buggy match… join us at Bug Safari Saturday!
  Explore real bugs, make crafts, and go on a wild insect adventure!

April 2025

We Love Spring Break!

Every month in Backyard Learning, we showcase a unique aspect of Old Westbury Gardens’ educational programming. Through articles and activities, we aim to foster a deeper connection with nature—even when you’re not physically at the Gardens!

This April, we’re featuring our Seasonal Sprouts (ages 4–6) and Spring Breakout (ages 6–9), a spring break tour taking place on April 16th and 17th at 11 AM and 1 PM. Join us for two days of programs centered around Flowers and Trees on April 16th and Birds and Bugs on April 17th.

Birds and Bugs focuses on exploring the garden ecosystem and the creatures that help our flowers grow—like butterflies, bees, and birds. Little explorers will look high and low as we search for fluttering wings, buzzing bees, and birds on the breeze. We’ll discover how bees communicate through the waggle dance, match pollinators with their favorite flowers, and learn what blooms attract different pollinators. Inspired by Darwin, we’ll examine how birds’ beaks have adapted to suit different food sources. We’ll also craft bee buzzers to explore how bees make their signature buzzing sound.

Flowers & Trees is all about discovering the magic of nature coming back to life. From budding blossoms to towering trees, kids will get hands-on with springtime fun through nature walks, crafts, and take-home projects. We’ll learn how to tell a tree’s age using “tree cookies,” walk along the path to explore flower adaptations, build a giant flower together, and create nature-inspired art with leaf rubbings and custom tree cookie decorations. To celebrate spring, each child will plant a flower to take home.

During Spring Break, you can try your own flower experiment at home. Many florists use a method called absorption, where flowers are placed in colored water and “drink” it through their stems. This allows the color to travel up the stem and into the petals. You can try it yourself with the easy experiment below.

Color-Changing Flower Experiment

Tips:
Carnations work especially well for this, but chrysanthemums can also be used. Make sure your flower is thirsty—using one that hasn’t been watered will give better results.

Supplies You’ll Need:

•  White flowers
•  Food coloring
• Scissors
• Cup of lukewarm water

Instructions:

1. Step 1: Add 10–15 drops of food coloring into your cup of water.
   Step 2: Use scissors to split the stems of your flowers.
   Step 3: Place the freshly snipped flowers into the colored water.
   Step 4: Check back in a few hours and watch as your flowers begin to change color before your eyes!

March 2025

We Love Celebrating Women’s Stories!

Every month in Backyard Learning, we showcase a unique aspect of Old Westbury Gardens’ educational programming. Through articles and activities, we aim to foster a deeper connection with nature—even when you’re not physically at the Gardens!

Storybook Stroll Returns April 5th!

We’re thrilled to bring back our Storybook Strolls, starting on April 5th! Each month, we’ll feature a beloved children’s book, inviting families to explore the Gardens through reading and hands-on crafts.

While we eagerly await our first stroll, we couldn’t let March pass without a story! In honor of International Women’s Day, we’ve chosen a classic tale by a remarkable woman author and illustrator—The Little House by Virginia Lee Burton. We encourage you to visit your local library to pick up a copy and try our special Little House-inspired origami craft at home!

The Little House by Virginia Lee Burton

This timeless story follows a small house in the countryside as the world around it changes. Through beautifully detailed illustrations, Burton reminds us of the importance of home, history, and caring for the places we love—just like Old Westbury Gardens!

Who Was Virginia Lee Burton?

Virginia Lee Burton (1909–1968) was an award-winning author and illustrator, best known for classics like Mike Mulligan and His Steam Shovel, Katy and the Big Snow, and The Little House, which won the prestigious Caldecott Medal.

Beyond books, Burton was also a talented designer. She founded the Folly Cove Designers, a group of artists celebrated for their intricate, hand-printed fabric patterns. She believed that both art and storytelling should be accessible, meaningful, and full of life—a spirit that shines through in all her work.

Our Education Manager, Laura first discovered the works of this amazing woman when she went to the Cape Ann Museum, besides her stories she saw her beautiful work with the Folly Cove Designers.

Celebrating International Women’s Day – March 8th

International Women’s Day is a time to honor the achievements of women throughout history—artists, scientists, leaders, and innovators who have shaped our world. Virginia Lee Burton’s stories continue to inspire young readers and creators, showing how imagination and determination can help build the future.

Origami Little House Craft

The Little House reminded us of our own charming Thatched Cottage at Old Westbury Gardens! This special little house was a gift to Peggy Phipps when she was just 10 years old.

Get creative with our Little House-inspired origami tutorial and bring this beloved story to life!

Supplies You’ll Need:

• Paper
• Markers

Instructions:

1. Fold your paper in half horizontally.
2. Open up your square and repeat Step 1 vertically.
3. Open your square, and fold from the bottom to the halfway line you created in Step 1 & 2.
4. Flip so the fold is vertical and facing down. Then fold the bottom edge to the halfway point.
5. Fold the top edge in Step 4 down to the halfway point.
6. Lightly tug the top flap you’ve created, and fold on the diagonal to create a triangle shape.
7. Repeat Step 6 on the other side.
8. Fold the bottom edge up to the halfway point.
9. Decorate your origami house! Use your creativity and decorate your little house!

February 2025

We Love Celebrating Birdwatching!

Every month in Backyard Learning, we showcase a unique aspect of Old Westbury Gardens’ educational programming. Through articles and activities, we aim to foster a deeper connection with nature—even when you’re not physically at the Gardens!

February is National Bird Feeding Month!

In 1994, Congress established February as National Bird Feeding Month to raise awareness about feeding and watching birds. Winter can be a tough time for birds as food becomes scarce, but you can help by making a simple bird feeder! Not only will you support local birds, but you’ll also get a chance to observe them up close.

Birds at Old Westbury Gardens

Old Westbury Gardens is home to a variety of birds, each adding beauty and character to the landscape. Chimney Swifts are small, sooty-grey birds that spend most of their time in flight, catching insects midair. American Goldfinches, with their bright yellow feathers, are active seed-eaters often seen flitting among flowers. Blue Jays, known for their striking blue plumage and loud calls, are intelligent and bold. Cardinals stand out with their brilliant red color, especially against the winter snow. Grackles are sleek black birds with iridescent feathers and can look similar to Starlings and Blackbirds.

One of our Education Manager’s favorite birds to spot is the Great Blue Heron, a tall, graceful visitor that she was lucky enough to photograph this year!

Want to Try Birdwatching?

Did you know that 3 out of 10 Americans take part in birdwatching? If you want to give it a try, here are some helpful tips:

• Be Patient and Quiet – Birds are easily startled! Find a spot, stay still, and wait quietly.
• Go Early in the Morning – Birds are most active in the morning when they’re looking for food.

Use a Bird Guide – Try the Merlin Bird ID app from Cornell to identify birds by photo or song. A Long Island bird guidebook can help, too!

Make Your Own Bird Feeder

Want to help our feathered friends this winter? Try making this easy bird feeder and see what birds visit!

Supplies You’ll Need:

• Pine cone
• Sweetgum Ball
• String
• Peanut butter
• Bird seed
• Plastic knife

Instructions:

1. Use a plastic knife to spread peanut butter all over the pine cone and sweetgum ball.
2. Roll the pine cone or sweetgum ball in birdseed, making sure it sticks.
3. Tie a string around the top of the pine cone and sweetgum ball.
4. Hang your bird feeder on a tree branch and watch the birds enjoy their treat!

We’d love to see your bird feeder creations! 

Share your pictures and let us know what birds you spot. Tag us  on Instagram @oldwestburygardenskids 

 Happy birdwatching!

January 2025

We Love Deco at 100!

Every month in Backyard Learning, we showcase a unique aspect of Old Westbury Gardens’ educational programming. Through articles and activities, we aim to foster a deeper connection with nature—even when you’re not physically at the Gardens!

This January, the staff of Old Westbury Gardens became the students. Instead of welcoming visitors to our grounds, we visited the Deco at 100 exhibit at the Nassau County Museum of Art. It is fundamental for our staff and educators to stay updated on historical knowledge and remain engaged with other cultural institutions on Long Island. We were fortunate to meet with Einav Dembin (Lead Educator), Michelle Badzim (Manager of School Programs), Alex C. Maccaro (Assistant Curator), Noemi Fletcher (Education & Public Programs Coordinator) and Laura Lynch (Director of Education at the Nassau County Museum of Art). They provided us with an incredible tour of the exhibit and shared insights on how they conduct field trips to engage students of all ages.

We were charmed by how the museum’s educators engage their students through the five senses. By presenting images of architectural elements, related exhibit details to famous structures, they allow students to touch sample materials and even play Jazz Era music to set the scene. The staff tailored our visit to highlight the story of Art Deco on Long Island, sharing insights into the Frick family, the mansion’s history, and how the exhibit’s art reflects societal changes of the time.

The Deco at 100 exhibit opens with an Arnold Constable poster that ties the theme together: “Commemorating the mode of yesterday, presenting the mode of today, forecasting the mode of tomorrow.” Art Deco embodies this with a reflection on history, incorporating references to ancient Greek and Egyptian cultures while also embracing modern materials like chrome. One of the highlights of the exhibit was a timeline that provided historical context, allowing visitors to connect social and political events with the art of the period.

Our staff was especially excited to see a couple of pieces of Old Westbury Gardens’ history on display. In the first gallery room, a stunning 1930s silk, satin, and tulle dress from Chez Ninon, loaned from Old Westbury Gardens, complements the exhibit’s theme. The exhibit beautifully showcases how Art Deco influenced not just fine art and furniture but also fashion, which is a great passion of our Education Manager, Laura. Upstairs, we were delighted to see a digital video featuring Peggie Phipps with her bridal party at Old Westbury Gardens circa 1930. Watching Peggie in the very spaces where modern-day brides now take their wedding photos was a special full-circle moment for our staff.

Visiting museums and expanding our historical knowledge helps us enhance our tours at Old Westbury Gardens. Each of our tour guides has a particular passion—whether it’s family stories, architecture, notable guests, or the technology behind the house’s construction. By broadening our perspectives, we make visits to Old Westbury Gardens even more enriching for our guests.

We highly recommend visiting the Nassau County Museum of Art to experience Deco at 100, on view until June 15th. And of course, a visit to Old Westbury Gardens will further immerse you in Long Island’s rich history!

Thank you to the staff of Nassau County Museum of Art for the tour of Deco at 100, and to Noemi Fletcher for helping plan our trip.

Einav Dembin (Lead Educator)

Michelle Badzim (Manager of School Programs)

Alex C. Maccaro (Assistant Curator)

Noemi Fletcher (Education & Public Programs Coordinator)

Laura Lynch (Director of Education at the Nassau County Museum of Art).

December 2024

We Love Fairytales at Old Westbury Garden

Every month on Backyard Learning, we showcase a unique aspect of Old Westbury Gardens’ educational programming. Through articles and activities, we aim to foster a deeper connection with nature—even when you’re not physically at the Gardens!

This December, we’re featuring Pajama Storytime: Andersen’s Fairy Tales at Old Westbury Gardens, a magical evening event taking place on December 4th at 7 PM. Join us in your coziest pajamas for cookies, hot cocoa, and an enchanting reading of an abridged version of The Snow Queen. You can purchase tickets HERE!

This event is inspired by the stunning mural on the entryway ceiling of Westbury House, painted by the renowned English illustrator Duncan Carse. Known for his whimsical and fairy-like designs, Carse created a ceiling mural that seems to break through the room’s dark wood walls into a bright and airy space. The scene features a vista of soft white clouds against a brilliant blue sky, surrounded by colorful flowers, parrots, cockatoos, and a playful hidden monkey—always a fun discovery during tours!

Duncan Carse (1876–1938) was an accomplished artist and illustrator who exhibited his work at the Royal Academy in 1904. Before becoming celebrated for illustrating the 1912 edition of Hans Christian Andersen’s Fairy Tales, a collection of over 200 stories, he took on mural commissions, including his work at the Phipps Westbury House. His delicate, whimsical style perfectly complements the magical worlds of Andersen’s stories, making him an iconic figure in children’s literature and art.

To celebrate The Snow Queen, we’ll also share a fun activity—how to create your own unique paper snowflakes, perfect for bringing a bit of winter magic into your home.

We hope to see you at Pajama Storytime for an evening of warmth, whimsy, and wonder and invite you to glance up and see a bit of illustration history on the ceiling of Westbury House.

Snowflake Craft

Materials:

• Coffee Filter

• Scissors
• Watercolor Paint
• Paint Brush

Directions:

1. Take your coffee filter and fold it in half like you’re closing a book.
2. Then fold it again and keep folding it, making it smaller each time, until you can’t fold it anymore
3. Now grab your scissors and get creative! Snip out tiny notches, triangles, or any fun shapes you can imagine on the edges of your folded coffee filter. Each cut is like adding a secret design to your snowflake!
4. Now for the big reveal! Carefully unfold your coffee filter to see your one-of-a-kind snowflake masterpiece! You can leave it beautifully white like real snow or grab some watercolors, markers, or crayons to add a splash of color and make it truly your own. Decorate!Find the perfect spot to show off your snowflake! Hang it in a window to catch the light, attach itto a string and dangle it from the ceiling, or use it to decorate your holiday tree!