Marine Biology: Junior Citizen Scientist- Reef Check Program
Connecting with the ocean by snorkeling and learning to observe, identify, and document our reef.
8- 14 yrs, 1:30 - 5:30 pm, Apr 24 & 25 (Fri, Sat)
Over two days, kids explore the Villingili house reef to identify its benthic foundation, including coral formations, rock, and sponges. Using underwater slates, kids will then conduct a scientific survey, noting down fish and invertebrates . By moving slowly and observing quietly, kids learn to document marine life and perform a real "health check" of the reef. This session is for comfortable and confident swimmers.See Details for 2 day breakdown.
Kids Pickup/Dropoff from Male’ Ferry Terminal
Registration Fee
None
MVR1400 51% Sponsored MVR 686
1:30 - 5:30 pm, Apr 24 & 25 (Fri, Sat)
None
MVR1400 51% Sponsored MVR 686
1:30 - 5:30 pm, Apr 24 & 25 (Fri, Sat)
Day 1 - Day 1: Understanding the coral reef benthos
- We focus on the benthic organisms - the living and non-living parts that make up the reef. Kids will learn to identify different coral formations, rock, rubble, algae, and sponges. By the end of the day, kids will be familiar with the "building blocks" of the Villingili house reef and how to navigate it as a scientist.
- The second day is all about the reef’s mobile inhabitants. We begin with Fish ID, learning to recognize indicator species that tell us if a reef is healthy. Using underwater slates, students will then conduct a survey noting down fish and invertebrates. By moving slowly and watching quietly, kids learn to document the reef’s life in a purposeful way, turning a normal snorkel into a real "health check" of the reef.
- Our sessions are small, structured, and guided by curiosity. Observation is always prioritized, and any handling is brief, supervised, and limited to common species that can safely tolerate it. Animals are returned where they are found, with emphasis on exploration, respect, and care. The goal is to help children find their way back to nature- to feel the textures and smells of the world around them, so they may connect with the living world, and grow into future stewards of the ecosystems that sustain us.
- A backpack your child can comfortably carry (with their belongings inside) A litterless healthy snack
- Refillable water bottle Sun protection items you prefer (hat, sunscreen, etc.)
- Insect /Mosquito repellent (please apply before arrival if preferred and a small bottle can be stored in their backpack for the day).
- Swimwear & quick-dry clothes
- Towel & extra change of clothes
