After all the hoopla of the holidays, January always seems to dull in comparison. But thanks to mother nature, the new year is about to get a little sweeter at Rockwoods Reservation. Maple sugaring is here and it’s time to tap the trees!

• Aunt Jemima is a sweet lady, but maybe it’s time to try something new on your pancakes. Bundle up the kiddies and learn the art of making your own maple syrup. Even if you have one or two trees, this is a great opportunity for your family to learn about sugar maples, how to tap trees and what equipment to use to turn sap into syrup. A lot of this program is outside, so dress for the weather.

• Rockwoods Reservation is also home to the annual Maple Sugar Festival. This celebration is a great way for kids to experience conservation success and forest resources at its finest  — and sweetest! You’ll visit the Sugar Bush to see trees tapped and collect the precious sap. Next, you’ll boil the sap down like Colonial Americans at the Three Kettle Station and then use a more modern method at the Sugar Shack. After all your hard work, you’ll get to taste the delicious syrup, sugar on snow taffy and pure maple sugar. More importantly, you’ll learn how do to all of this right in your own backyard.

Maple Sugar Festival • Saturday, February 4 • All ages • 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

• Homeschool children of all ages are invited to come out on select days to learn about maple sugaring. You will learn the history of maple sugaring, visit the sugar bush to collect sap and learn how to boil it down into syrup. Of course, they’ll also get the chance to enjoy samples of Rockwoods’ own maple syrup!

Homeschool Special: Maple Sugaring • Friday, February 17 and Wednesday, February 22 • Noon to 1:30 p.m.

• Between soccer practice, basketball games and birthday parties, did your family miss out on maple sugar fun? No problem, bring your little learners out for this “after school session” to embark on the Missouri tradition. They’ll learn the history of maple sugaring, visit the sugar bush to collect sap, learn how to boil it down into syrup and taste their sweet results. Dress for the weather and be prepared part of the trail is not stroller accessible.

After School Session: Maple Sugaring • Thursday, February 23 • All ages • 4 to 5:30 p.m.

Reservations are required for all of these programs except the Maple Sugar Festival. To reserve your spot or for more information, visit the Missouri Department of Conservation’s website or call Rockwoods Reservation at (636) 458-2236. All programs are free and open to the public.

By Andrea Wilson, Events Blogger for SmartParenting