College of Agriculture & Natural Resources

Starting a Leaf Collection

Start a leaf collection! Join Michigan State University Extension 4-H  Program Coordinator Seth Martin to learn how to select and preserve leaves to start a leaf collection. 

Wild Spartans: Science in Zookeeping & Conservation with Caitlin Mack

Published on November 10, 2020

In this 4-H Wild Spartans episode, we head to the sub-Sahara to learn about African painted (wild) dogs. Meet MSU graduate researcher, Caitlin Mack, learn about her work on the social behavior and conservation of these rare carnivores, and the education and career path she followed as she discusses “Science in Zookeeping and Conservation.”

Wild Spartans: Raptor Conservation with Libby Mojica

Published on January 12, 2021

In this 4-H Wild Spartans episode, we take to the skies to talk to an ornithologist about the raptors that inspire us! Learn about researching, protecting, and conserving raptors that soar our skies. Meet EDM wildlife biologist, Libby Mojica, learn about her field work, and the education and career path she followed to get there as she discusses “Raptor Conservation and Management: Working with Birds of Prey in Cities and Wildlands.”

Wild Spartans: Invasive Species with Taylor Haas

Published on December 8, 2020

In this 4-H Wild Spartans episode, we go upstream to learn about sea lamprey, an oceanic species invading the Great Lakes. Meet MSU graduate researcher, Taylor Haas, learn about his field work, and the education and career path he followed to get there in his presentation, “Invasive Species and I: A Scientist’s Tale of Working with Wildlife from Elsewhere”.

Wild Spartans: Protecting Michigan's Bats with John DePue

Published on October 26, 2020

In this 4-H Wild Spartans episode, meet Michigan DNR biologist, John DePue, learn about his field work, and his education and career path as he shares his work "Protecting Michigan's Bats."

Wild Spartans: Searching for Vernal Pools with Yu Man Lee

Published on March 9, 2021

In this episode, we will take a dive into the springtime ephemeral pools in the woods to discover the treasures within! We will talk to a herpetologist about researching and conserving amphibians and reptiles. Meet Yu Man Lee, Conservation Scientist, Michigan Natural Features Inventory, learn about her field work, and the education and career path she followed to get there.

4-H Children's Garden Virtual Tour

A June walk through the 4-H Children's Garden with Dr. Norm.

4-H Children's Garden Online Butterfly School

Published on March 20, 2020

Make a virtual visit to our 2020 "Butterfly School" at the 4-H Children's Gardens at MSU. In addition to the video, this series of activities will help youth learn about butterflies and earn a Butterfly Friend certificate.

Wild Spartans: All About Honey Bees with with Ana Heck

Published on February 9, 2021

In this episode, we talk to an entomologist researching the pollinators of our world. Meet MSU apiculture researcher, Ana Heck, learn about her field work, and the education and career path she followed to get there as she discusses “All About Honey Bees: Working with a Superorganism” as we discover what the buzz really is about bees!

Crafts Around the World Series Asia: Japanese Origami 4-H Clover

Published on May 21, 2021
This activity provides youth the opportunity to learn about cultural activities as well as practice Japanese origami paper folding.

Crafts Around the World Series Arctic Region of North America: Soap Carving

Published on May 11, 2021
This activity provides youth the opportunity to learn about cultural activities as well as practice soap carving skills.

STEM On-Request Interactive Zoom Programs

Published on September 24, 2020
These opportunities are available to teachers, parents and homeschool families interested in connecting with MSU Extension staff through live, interactive Zoom connections. To request these virtual programs, please reach out to the staff person listed.

Crafts Around the World Series Europe: Polish Wycinanki Traditional Cut-Paper

Published on May 21, 2021
This activity provides youth the opportunity to learn about cultural activities as well as practice traditional cut-paper.

Making a Paper Bag Journal - Nature Journaling

Published on April 15, 2020
MSU Extension provides an opportunity for youth to make their own personal paper bag journal

Crafts Around the World Series North America: Mexico Huichol Picture Yarn Art

Published on May 27, 2021
This activity provides youth the opportunity to learn about cultural activities as well as practice making yarn art.

Crafts Around the World Series Africa: Paper Beads

Published on May 11, 2021
This activity provides youth the opportunity to learn about cultural activities as well as practice making paper beads.

Craft Around the World Series South America: Chile & Argentina Rain Sticks

Published on May 11, 2021
This activity provides youth the opportunity to learn about cultural activities as well as practice making rain sticks.

84 easy science lessons you can do at home

Published on March 16, 2020
Are you a teacher or parent trying to find some lessons that could be done at home? Try one of these 84 science activities using supplies you probably already have around the house.