Leaf & Learn Trail

An Outdoor Learning Experience at Rochester Childfirst Network

Welcome to the Leaf & Learn Trail, a living classroom rooted in exploration, discovery, and nature-based learning.

Nestled within RCN’s 1.4-acre secured outdoor space, this child-friendly nature trail features dozens of labeled trees, plants, and garden spaces that invite children to engage with the natural world — one leaf, one step, one question at a time.

Why Nature Learning Matters

At RCN, we believe children learn best through experience. The Leaf & Learn Trail:

Encourages observation, inquiry, and sensory exploration
Supports early literacy and language development
Fosters respect and appreciation for the environment
Promotes movement and mindfulness in a natural setting

Whether a child is learning how to spot a maple leaf or noticing how bark feels under their fingers, every moment outdoors becomes a chance to grow.

Share Your Adventure!

We love seeing our families enjoy the outdoors. Tag us on social media using
#LeafAndLearnTrail or #RCNOutdoors to share your photos and discoveries!

What Is the Leaf & Learn Trail?

The Leaf & Learn Trail is a self-guided nature walk designed for RCN students, families, and visitors. Along the path, you’ll find:

Metal signs at trees and plants with their names and species
QR codes linking to this page for more in-depth information and fun facts
Interactive elements designed to spark curiosity and language development
Seasonal highlights showing how nature changes and grows, just like our children

It’s part science lesson, part storybook, and 100% hands-on learning.

For Families & Educators

Visiting RCN for a tour, event, or drop-off? Take a few extra minutes to explore the trail with your child.

Ask questions like “What do you notice?” or “How do the leaves feel?”
Scan the QR codes together and learn fun facts
Revisit throughout the year to notice changes in color, shape, and growth

This is more than just a trail — it’s a place where learning takes root.

Plants and Trees on The Leaf and Learn Trail

Sign #	Plant/Tree Name	Scientific Name	Page Links
1	Japanese Maple	Acer palmatum	https://rcn4kids.org/Leaf-and-Learn-Trail_1
2	White Spruce	Picea glauca	https://rcn4kids.org/Leaf-and-Learn-Trail_2
3	Bigleaf Hydrangea	Hydrangea macrophylla	https://rcn4kids.org/Leaf-and-Learn-Trail_3
4	Japanese Maple	Acer palmatum	https://rcn4kids.org/Leaf-and-Learn-Trail_4
5	Lily Magnolia	Magnolia liliiflora	https://rcn4kids.org/Leaf-and-Learn-Trail_5
6	Sweet Cherry	Prunus avium	https://rcn4kids.org/Leaf-and-Learn-Trail_6
7	Oakleaf Hydrangea	Hydrangea quercifolia	https://rcn4kids.org/Leaf-and-Learn-Trail_7
8	Norway Maple	Acer platanoides	https://rcn4kids.org/Leaf-and-Learn-Trail_8
9	Silver Maple	Acer saccharinum	https://rcn4kids.org/Leaf-and-Learn-Trail_9
10	Honey Locust	Gleditsia triacanthos	https://rcn4kids.org/Leaf-and-Learn-Trail_10
11	Green Ash	Fraxinus pennsylvanica	https://rcn4kids.org/Leaf-and-Learn-Trail_11
12	River Birch	Betula nigra	https://rcn4kids.org/Leaf-and-Learn-Trail_12
13	Siberian Dogwood	Cornus alba	https://rcn4kids.org/Leaf-and-Learn-Trail_13
14	Eastern Cottonwood	Populus deltoides	https://rcn4kids.org/Leaf-and-Learn-Trail_14
15	Amur Maple	Acer tataricum	https://rcn4kids.org/Leaf-and-Learn-Trail_15
16	Quaking Aspen	Populus tremuloides	https://rcn4kids.org/Leaf-and-Learn-Trail_16
17	Striped Maple	Acer pensylvanicum	https://rcn4kids.org/Leaf-and-Learn-Trail_17
18	Sugar Maple	Acer saccharum	https://rcn4kids.org/Leaf-and-Learn-Trail_18
19	Weeping Willow	Salix babylonica	https://rcn4kids.org/Leaf-and-Learn-Trail_19
20	American Sycamore	Platanus occidentalis	https://rcn4kids.org/Leaf-and-Learn-Trail_20
21	Bartlett Pear	Pyrus communis	https://rcn4kids.org/Leaf-and-Learn-Trail_21
22	Apple: Honey Gold	Malus pumila	https://rcn4kids.org/Leaf-and-Learn-Trail_22
23	Apple: Royal Court	Malus pumila	https://rcn4kids.org/Leaf-and-Learn-Trail_23
24	Apple: Mac Liberty	Malus pumila	https://rcn4kids.org/Leaf-and-Learn-Trail_24