Arabic, originating in the 6th century, is now one of the world’s most widely spoken and recognized languages. Modern Standard Arabic serves as the formal language of news, media, and literature. Level 1: This beginner class introduces the 28 Arabic letters and builds foundational reading and writing skills through interactive, practical instruction. You’ll also learn everyday vocabulary and simple conversational phrases, including greetings and polite expressions. Level 3: For those who are able to read and write simple words. Practice basic conversations that include nationalities, family members, describing neighborhoods and residences, food and drink, clothing and colors, weather, and more.

Please note: this tour takes place on Saturday, November 7 (not Sunday as listed in the catalog).The Gibson House Museum in Boston’s Back Bay neighborhood served as residence to three generations of Gibson family members and their household staff between 1859 and 1954. This tour invites visitors to explore the house and consider issues of class and culture through the stories and objects of the people who lived and worked here. Note: This tour climbs 5 flights of stairs and is just under an hour long

No leaves? No problem. We’ll get up close to identify 10–12 common trees using branching patterns, buds, bark, habitat clues, persistent fruits, galls, and even marcescent leaves. The walk will focus on tree ID as well as fun and fascinating natural history. Bring a hand lens or magnifying glass if you have one. Children ages 10+ are welcome to register if accompanied by a registered adult.

Carving fresh, found wood into useful objects is a fun, relaxing, and satisfying hobby. We will cover an overview of “green” woodworking, including tools, materials, process, technique, and safety. We will talk through the early part of the process of turning a log into a rough carving blank with an axe. Then you will learn safe, effective knife grips so you can carve your project. We’ll wrap up with a discussion on finishing touches, decoration possibilities, and how to continue in the craft. Class fees include all materials needed, as well as use of loaner tools. Butter Spreader/Cheese Knife: Wooden spreaders, present in nearly every Swedish kitchen, were traditionally hand-carved. Yours will be great for spreading butter and also soft, medium, and crumbly cheeses. This single-session class is perfect for complete beginners. Wooden Spoon: The serving spoons we’ll make have an extra-large bowl for generous helpings and a stout handle for ease of use. No prior experience is required, but some familiarity with woodworking, carving, or other handcrafts would be beneficial for this two-night class.

Discover the magic of origami and the satisfaction of creating beautiful geometric designs from simple paper. We’ll start with basic folds and techniques, explore how pieces connect, and guide you step by step through each creation. As your skills grow, you’ll move on to more intricate designs while refining your folding techniques.

Connect with your 6th or 7th grader through meaningful conversations about some of the world’s major religions and belief systems. Guided by veteran middle school educators, you will explore traditions, sacred stories, celebrations, symbols, and practices within the Abrahamic faiths and beyond. Through discussion, storytelling, hands-on activities, and visits to local places of worship, you will build religious literacy, discover connections, and gain perspectives on our diverse world. No prior knowledge required—just curiosity and an open mind.PLEASE NOTE: Please register under adult’s name only. The class fee is for one adult and one child.

Discover how nature’s designs have inspired some of humanity’s most important innovations. Biomimicry is the practice of studying and adapting solutions found in nature to solve human challenges. Examine examples from biomimicry research, including bees’ hexagonal hive structures, seashell spirals, plant burrs (the inspiration for Velcro), and biomedical adhesives modeled on gecko skin. Consider how these and other natural systems continue to influence human technology. Time for questions, hands-on activities, and take-home resources will be included.

Observe local birds on these birdwatching field trips. We will focus on different strategies for locating and identifying birds based on their appearance, songs and calls, behavior, and habitat. To get the most out of field trips, attendance at the Birdwatching 101 class is highly encouraged. Binoculars are highly recommended. Rain dates: 10/4 and 10/18

Maximize your enjoyment and appreciation of birds in their local environment. We’ll discuss necessary and recommended tools (binoculars, scopes, bird books, and phone applications); how to pick a place and a time for ideal birdwatching; and strategies for identifying birds using their appearance, flight patterns, songs and calls, and the habitats where they live and migrate through.