The workshop will provide a basic understanding on the latest in brain research related to the developing brain of a child who struggles with ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorders, and other disabilities that can impact learning and behavior. We will present hands on strategies and tools for the home educator to be able to activate the brain for controlling impulsivity, reducing anxiety, and increase reasoning skills which are key for learning!

The workshop will provide a basic understanding on the latest in brain research related to the developing the brain. We will present hands on strategies and tools for the home educator to be able to activate the brain for memory and increased learning. Techniques will be multi-sensory (gross motor, fine motor, olfactory, auditory, and visual) tools that specifically activate the left hemisphere of the brain which is responsible for verbal communication, memory, understanding facts and details, fine motor development, motivation, and the ability to set goals.

Please join us for our first Skywatching program of the season. We will have a concert, hands-on activities, and telescope viewing. Do you have a telescope at home you aren’t sure how to use? Our experts can help you! Bring your telescope for one-on-one help or, if you want, learn how to use our telescopes. 6:30 - CONCERT with the Secret Society of Science Song Writers of Northwest High School (4SW). Bring chairs or blankets to sit out on the lawn. 7:15 – TELESCOPE HELP and hands-on activities. If you plan on bringing your telescope, please let us know by May 5.

Discover the magic of trains at the Gaithersburg Community Museum’s Train Day. Visitors are invited to celebrate Gaithersburg’s long and storied history with the railroad. Enjoy a N-Gauge model train display presented by BANTRAK members, explore vintage rail cars, and participate in train-related activities. In the museum, have fun in the hands-on learning centers and shop for train-themed items. With any luck visitors can also enjoy the sights and sounds of the actual CSX and AMTRAK trains that frequently rumble past the Museum.

In honor of the 150th Anniversary of the Periodic Table of Elements, the Curiosity Cube (by MilliporeSigma) is visiting the Plaza. Activities will help visitors demystify elements in our everyday life. Through interactive, hands-on science experiments using the latest technology, Curiosity Cube will inspire curiosity in the next generation of scientists. Free.

Come learn about different adaptations that different birds have. See how they use these adaptations to survive in different environments. Live & mounted specimens will be used to facilitate the discussion and the learning. This program for Elementary School students is $8 per New Pond Farm member child and $12 per non-member child Registration is required. Please register online or by calling (203) 938-2117.

Come build a rocket and then launch it outside in the pasture. Watch it soar high in the sky and then take it home once it returns to Earth. All materials will be provided. This program is $20 per New Pond Farm member and $25 per non-member. Registration is required, space is limited.Please register online or by calling (203) 938-2117.

Celebrate Mom this year by presenting her with a sweet felt flower necklace that you make yourself. We will show step by step the process of taking soft wool felt and rolling and stacking it into realistic floral shapes. Attach your flowers to a silky ribbon and you have a hand crafted piece of jewelry that will make your mom feel beautiful.

Create your own beautiful tree as you decorate hand-blown eggs. This is a perfect decoration for your spring table. This program for Elementary School students is $12 per New Pond Farm member and $16 per non-member. Registration is required, space is limited. Please register online or by calling (203) 938-2117.

New Pond Farm Education Center's Program Director Tim Laughlin, a veteran fly-tyer, would like to introduce you to the art of fly tying. Join in tying a “Woolly bugger” that you will take home once it is finished. Once started this could become a lifelong hobby! All equipment and materials will be provided. $15 per New Pond Farm member, $20 per non-member Registration is required, space is limited. Please register at www.newpondfarm.org or by calling (203) 938-2117.