Blog

“Her name is Tickle,” she said, giggling as a millipede crawled across her arm. “It tickles!” That moment—pure curiosity, a little bravery, and a lot of joy—captured the spirit of our first week of Jocassee Wild Child Outdoor Laboratory Experiences (JWC OLÉ). This week, 4th graders from Oconee and Greenville counties stepped into a living classroom—one that floats, explores, and invites wonder at every turn. On the water, our guides shared stories of geology, life cycles, and the rhythms of the natural world. Just as often, learning flowed the other way. Students lit up the boats with their own discoveries—teaching us about water bears, explaining tectonic plates, and even breaking into a spontaneous rap about science. Along the shoreline and beneath cascading waterfalls, moments of awe unfold everywhere—like the student captivated by a swirl of swallowtail butterflies. These are the moments that build confidence, spark curiosity, and stay with children long after the day ends. ~Kerry McKenzie, Director, Jocassee Wild Child Outdoor Lab Experiences, JLT Naturalist Guide & Kayak Instructor