Junior Adventurers: Magical & Mythical Creatures Collectors' Club + Field Guide

Step into a world of magic and imagination, where unicorns, dragons, and other mythical creatures roam! In this interactive weekly club, young explorers will discover legendary beings from cultures around the world, learning about their origins, symbolism, and the stories that keep their magic alive.

Each week, we’ll introduce a new mythical creature, exploring its appearance, abilities, cultural significance, and legendary origins. Students will observe and discuss illustrated depictions, then create their own field guide journal, drawing and labeling each creature while practicing scientific observation and creative expression.

Beyond our journal work, we’ll share favorite fantasy books and toys, exchange fun facts, and dive into interactive activities like movement games, storytelling, and building challenges. Through these engaging experiences, students will naturally explore geography, folklore, cultural traditions, and connections between history and imagination.

✨ What to Expect:
✔️ Weekly themed creature lessons (stories, slides, video clips, and discussions)
✔️ Hands-on creative activities (drawing, building, storytelling, and more!)
✔️ A focus on observation, geography, and cultural legends
✔️ Opportunities to share favorite fantasy creatures, books, and ideas
✔️ Fun, engaging social interactions in a welcoming space

Dressing up is always welcome, but never required!

🌍 Perfect for young fantasy lovers who enjoy exploring magical worlds while building creativity, observation skills, and cultural awareness.

🌟 A Supportive & Neuro-Affirming Space 🌟

This class is designed with inclusivity, flexibility, and student-led engagement at its heart. As a parent of twice-exceptional (2e) and neurodivergent children, I understand the importance of creating a welcoming, pressure-free environment where all learners can engage in ways that feel comfortable to them. Whether a child loves to share and chat, prefers to listen quietly, or needs movement breaks, their unique learning style is valued and respected. I incorporate autism-community-informed best practices, including clear structure, optional participation, sensory-friendly pacing, and a strengths-based approach that celebrates curiosity, creativity, and self-expression. In this space, students can fully embrace their love of magical creatures in a way that honors their individual needs—because learning should always be joyful, accessible, and affirming.

2025 Themes:

Week of January 5: Mermaid
Week of January 12: Kitsune
Week of January 19: Centaur
Week of January 26: Hippocamp
Week of February 2: Phoenix
Week of February 9:  Caticorn
Week of February 16: Wizard
Week of February 23: Yeti
Week of March 2: Magic Pets and Familiars
Week of March 9: Fairy
Week of March 16: Leprechaun
Week of March 23: Anansi
Week of March 30: Hydra 
Week of April 6: Pegasus 
Week of April 13: Cerberus
Week of April 20: Tiddalik
Week of April 27: My Very Own Monster
Week of May 4:  Dragon Eyes
Week of May 11: Elves
Week of May 18: Minotaur
Week of May 25: DIY Fairy
Week of June 1: MAGICAL CREATURES FUN WEEK
Week of June 8: Ammit
Week of June 15: Faun
Week of June 22: NO CLASSES
Week of June 29: Jackalope (NO CLASSES 7/4 due to the US Holiday)
Week of July 6: Raven
Week of July 13: Totem Poles
Week of July 20: Goblins
Week of July 27: Sphinx
Week of August 3: Sirens
Week of August 10: NO CLASSES
Week of August 17: Genie/Jinn
Week of August 24: Bake-Kujira
Week of August 31: MAGICAL CREATURES FUN WEEK (Games + A Creative Project)
Week of September 7: Manticore
Week of September 14: Moon Rabbit
Week of September 21: Dragon
Week of September 28: Ratatoskr
Week of October 5: Gryphon
Week of October 12: Cryptid Monster Lab (bring your drawing supplies!)
Week of October 19: Ghost
Week of October 26: Werewolf
Week of November 2: Medusa
Week of November 9: Sea Serpent
Week of November 16: Chimera
Week of November 23: NO CLASS due to US Holiday
Week of November 30: Hippogryph (Hippogriff)
Week of December 7: Unicorn
Week of December 14: Gnome
Week of December 21: NO CLASS
Week of December 28: NO CLASS

Future themes will be updated in the listing and in the weekly classroom.  This class rotates a full year of themes annually.  All themes are subject to change based on teacher preference and student input.

PLEASE NOTE: Due to the target age of this club, it is recommended that parents or caregivers remain close be to provide assistance and support as needed, especially with our 4-5 year old learners.  OS policy requests that adults remain off camera as much as possible, but it is important to stay close to help with technical difficulties, emotional needs, teacher/student communication clarification, and helping hands when needed.  I find that having a grown-up nearby creates the best experience for these younger learners.

ALSO:  Access to a color printer is required for this class, as well as a blank notebook or sketchbook.  The teacher will provide a recommendation as to what type of notebook works best upon request.  All other supplies will be easy to find, common household or office supplies, and will be noted in the classroom prior to each weekly meeting (as well as in the "Supplies" section of this class listing).