Choose Learning Type ▼

Nature’s Sponge

Activity

Watching the Rain Garden Work

Watch your school’s rain garden in action! Notice how the plants and soil look on a sunny day; compare during or after rain using the same key markers. How does the garden smell? What is the temperature and moisture level of the soil? Do the plants look stretched out or shriveled up? What are some other things you see?
Clima 1 (2)
Clima 1
Clima 1 (3)

Science Seed

Rain gardens are designed to capture rainwater runoff, helping to reduce flooding and improve water quality. The native plants in the garden help soak up large amounts of water, while the special soil allows it to absorb moisture quickly. After a rainfall, healthy rain gardens show signs of water absorption, with the water clearing away within hours and leaving the plants thriving. The soil should feel cool and moist, providing the plants with the hydration they need without becoming waterlogged. Over time, you may notice an increase in wildlife, such as birds and pollinators, that use the garden as a habitat, a sign that the garden is not just managing the water but is also a healthy environment for local species. The garden’s ability to filter pollutants from rainwater before it enters streets or storm drains also plays an important role in maintaining cleaner water sources and a healthier ecosystem.
botany jar illustration

move to the next activity

earn Badges

Badges can be earned through hands-on experiences within each of the 16 branches of science, or “Science Slices.” You can earn a badge in each branch of science by doing four activities in these categories. We also encourage participants to keep a Nature Journal to record their memories, and to express themselves creatively through writing or drawing after each activity. We recommend that each child (and parent if they’d like) write or draw in a journal after each activity, with expectations of your children that match their age (the goal is self-expression, not perfection).

Explore Sanchez Elementary

join Families in Nature

It is our vision to inspire all families to fall in love with nature and foster the next generation of conservationists. Becoming a member of Families in Nature will give your family the opportunity to have adventures in nature, experience field science, develop as youth conservation leaders, and make memories that will last a lifetime. Memberships are free for everyone.

Who are we?

Families in Nature works to create opportunities for nature connection with the purpose of sparking a deep love and desire to protect, conserve and restore the environment. Our mission is to connect children and their families to nature and to each other through time spent learning, playing, and volunteering outdoors. It is our vision to inspire ALL families to fall in love with nature and foster the next generation of conservationists.

Sánchez Elementary School is close to downtown on Austin’s east side. Built in 1976, the campus boasts murals by Raul Valdez depicting the school’s Hispanic history and heritage. Sánchez was one of the district’s first to introduce two-way dual language education- fitting because the school’s namesake, George Sánchez, was a pioneer in bilingual education. This project was made possible by HEB.

Skip to content