Distance Learning

Explore the following at-home thematic lessons, organized by suggested age group, and learn about Martin Van Buren.


These activities are designed for at-home use, but teachers are welcome to adapt them for the classroom. See our curriculum materials page for more formal classroom learning.

 

Lindenwald Littles Learning Series: Pre-K to Lower Elementary Grades.

 
Smiling little girl in Ranger Hat

Ranger Time

An Online, Interactive History and Civics Program
for students in Preschool – Lower Elementary Grades.


Ranger Time is an on-line interactive themed program offering sensitively explained
age-appropriate lessons to help adults introduce:
Civics, American History and Martin Van Buren
to Preschool and Kindergarten age children.

Ranger Time 2021:

  1. The American Revolution
  2. The United States Constitution
  3. What Makes a Citizen?

 
A stuffed turtle and a stuffed fox sitting on a chair with campaign slogans

Ranger Time 2020:

"I Voted!" - Ranger Time Election


This program is designed to introduce children to elections, voting, and making important decisions through hands-on activities.
 
Cartoon Drawing of Male and Female US National Park Rangers

Wee Wonders

An Online, Interactive
Science and History Program
for Students In
Preschool – Lower Elementary Grades.


Hands-on Science themed lessons with a connection to Martin Van Buren.
 
White clouds and a bright blue sky over a farmer's field

Wee Wonders:

Weather

"Temperature, Clouds and Sun is Weather -
Oh, My!"

Did you know that weather is more than just one thing?
How do you tell the difference?
You’ll find the answer to these questions through an experiment, creating art and other activities because “temperature, clouds, and sun is weather – Oh, my!”
 
Landscape Photography of Trees

Wee Wonders:

Trees

"You've Got a Friend In Trees"


Enjoy a tree adventure: listen to a story about the importance of trees, learn the difference between Deciduous and Evergreen trees, create a plant playlist, compare tree “bark-prints,” craft a heart-shaped leaf, get a very special look at the woodland scene depicted in the wallpaper of the grand hall at Martin Van Buren’s Lindenwald and more!

1. A Story and a Visit.
2. The difference Between Deciduous and Evergreen Trees.
3. Gather "Bark-Prints."
4. How Many "Yous?"
5. Music Is Good for Plants!
6. A Playlist for Your Plant!
7. Tree Of Hearts
8. Brain Check! (Tree Quiz)
 
 

Van Buren’s Scholars: 5th Grade – 8th Grade

 
Assorted Print Painting Lot
"Assorted Print-painting Lot"

Andrew Neel

"Can't Touch This"

Museums are fascinating places, and not just for adults, but for kids too!
Though, it’s not easy to visit some museums. There are so many exciting things to see and learn about, but you are not allowed to touch any of the items on display.

Have you ever wondered why you are not allowed to touch items in museums?
This program uses 5 hands-on activities and lessons to answer that question.

Activity 1: Has you break something only to try and put it back together.
Activity 2: Asks you to think about something you've broken and what happened later.
Activity 3: Video, "What If You Damaged Something In a Museum?"
Activity 4: "That's Why They Can't Have Nice Things."
Activity 5: "Erase His Face!" A lesson on Dagguerreotypes.
The End: Has you thinking what can be done to prevent damage.
 
Colorized sketch of a woman reading to two children

The Private World of Martin Van Buren


After Martin Van Buren’s loss for re-election as president, he returned to his boyhood village of Kinderhook, New York to be near those who knew and loved him. Learn more about his family and what life was like for him growing up.



 
A sketch of Martin Van Buren

Politics and Society in the Mid – 1800s


Politics and society during Martin Van Buren's time was very different than today. Explore the similarities and differences, and learn how the National Park Service preserves his legacy at Lindenwald.



 
 
 
 
 

Last updated: May 16, 2024

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Contact Info

Mailing Address:

Martin Van Buren NHS
1013 Old Post Road

Kinderhook, NY 12106-3605

Phone:

518 764-1041

Contact Us