Family Programs
A note about registration: Many of our programs fill quickly, so we highly recommend registering on the waiting list. We go to this list first if a space opens up. And by adding your name, you can help us better plan for the programs that are in high demand.
Second Saturday Family Science, Spring 2023
with Emily Schuttenberg
Ages 5–7 or Grades K–1
Second Saturdays, 10–11am
Jan. 14, Feb. 11, March 11, April 8, May 13, June 10
Suggested Donation: $5–$30 per family
Join us for seasonal nature and science programs each second Saturday of the month. Designed for children (ages 5–7) with their parents, these programs will explore cool topics in nature. We will be learning while moving, often exploring the woods behind our building.
June 10: Poisonous or Venomous
What’s the difference between poisonous and venomous? Where do these toxins come from? How do plants and animals use their toxins? In this Saturday Science we will explore the answers to these questions with hands-on activities, games, and nature exploration.
Second Saturday Family Science, Summer 2023
with Lauren Dausch
Ages 5–7 or Grades K–1
Second Saturdays of the month, 10–11am
September 9, October 14, November 11, December 9
Suggested Donation: $10–$30 per family
Join us for seasonal nature and science programs each second Saturday of the month. Designed for children (ages 5–7) with their parents, these programs will explore cool topics in nature. We will be learning while moving, often exploring the woods behind our building.
September 9: Using Your Senses (Outside)
Come join us and learn how you can use your senses to connect more deeply with the natural world around you!
October 14: Changing Leaves (Outside)
Why do leaves change colors in autumn? And why do they fall off? Join us for an exploration about the life of leaves!
November 11: Birds in Fall (Outside)
Birds do big things in fall! Come learn with us as we discover the different ways that birds care for themselves as the weather cools down.
December 9: Signs of Animals in Winter (Inside/outside)
The winter season is abundant with life even when it doesn’t seem so. Come join us as we learn how to recognize signs of animals in winter, and discover the unique features of the season!
Saturdays with the animals
Suggested ages 5-7
Special time: 1pm to 2
Suggested Donation: $10-$30 per family
Come meet one of the Hitchcock Center’s animal ambassadors. Designed for children (ages 5–7) with their parents, these programs will include some time with one of the Hitchcock Center teaching animals and a craft.
October 14: Cob the corn snake
November 11: Ivy and Terra the box turtles
Drop-In Monarch Tagging 
With Jennifer Unkles
All ages
Saturday, September 16, 3-4pm
Suggested Donation: $10–$30 per person
Drop in any time to see how monarch butterflies are tagged and ask questions about this amazing creature and their hope filled cycle of survival.
Monarch Tagging Classes
With Jennifer Unkles
Ages 3+
Thursday, September 21, 4-5:30pm
Tuesday, September 26, 4-5:30pm
Suggested Donation: $10–$30 per person
Limited to 15 participants
The monarch butterflies are back and their cycle continues! Come for a small group class to see them up close, learn about their fascinating life cycle, tag and release pre-caught butterflies and then take a hike to look for others. Nets and supplies will be provided. We often find other insects on these walks. Data collected will be added for scientific research through the Monarch Watch Community Science Project.
