Field Guide: Build It Like a Bee with iDig2Learn at Socrates Sculpture Park event image
Socrates Sculpture Park, 32-01 Vernon Boulevard, Long Island City, Long Island City, Queens

Field Guide: Build It Like a Bee with iDig2Learn at Socrates Sculpture Park

Kids build nests from mud, stems and fuzz the way solitary bees do, in a free hands-on workshop on the Socrates lawn.

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Most kids only know honeybees and hives, but the majority of bee species are solitary and build nests out of mud, chewed leaf, plant fuzz and hollow stems - which is exactly what this workshop has children do with their hands. iDig2Learn runs it on the Socrates Sculpture Park lawn, free and outdoors, so the raw material is the park itself. It is genuinely good science education disguised as making a mess by the East River.

What to expect

A hands-on outdoor workshop at shared tables with natural materials supplied, aimed at children with adults participating. Expect muddy hands and a short, focused session rather than a full morning. The park's sculpture and waterfront are free to explore around it.

Good to know

  • The N and W to Broadway in Astoria then a walk toward the river
  • Dress kids in clothes that can get muddy
  • The program is free and drop-in oriented, but check the park calendar for capacity
  • Shade on the lawn is limited, so hats and water help
  • Stay after to walk the sculpture installations, which are also free
  • The park is flat and stroller accessible

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Common questions

What ages is it for?

It is a family workshop aimed at children, with adults participating alongside.

Is it free?

Yes, Socrates Sculpture Park's Field Guide programs are free.

Who runs it?

iDig2Learn, an environmental education organization, leads the workshop with the park.