CONCURRENT PROGRAMMING

The Environmental Education Center offers programming for different ages at the same time of the day. It is our hope that families with children of different ages will be able to take advantage of the convenience of the scheduled activities. Please note that these programs are not designed only for families that have children of different ages. Our programming is available to all children that fall into the advertised age ranges.

Extinction is Forever
(Ages 4-6)
Have you ever been to the wilds of Africa and seen a Quagga? Or to the island of New Zealand and seen a Kaka? Unfortunately, you will never get the chance. What other animals have come and gone?
$9 per person
Course Code: 51343

Mantis Mania
(Ages 7-9)
They silently sit and wait for something to slowly to slither by. Patiently “preying,” waiting for the perfect tasty morsel. This is the life of one of our greatest predators. Come explore these mysterious and wonderful creatures. Not for the faint of heart. Just kidding!
$9 per person
Course Code: 51471

Green is the Color!
(Ages 4-6)
Let’s make sure that St. Patrick is not the only one wearing green on this special day! We will learn a little bit about the Emerald Isle and the traditions of Ireland. After a typical Irish treat, we will take a hike to see who else is wearing green. Feel free to be festive and come dressed in greenery!
$10 per person
Course Code: 51402

Walking is FUN for Everyone! - NEW
(Ages 7-9)
Do you like to walk? Please join us to practice safe walking skills. You will also make crafts and play games. Each participant will receive a small gift. This program is presented by Ridewise.
FREE
Course Code: 51652

Wake Up, Already!
(Ages 4-6)
March winds may be blowing but nestled on the forest floor are signs of life. This easy hike with a Naturalist is sure to surprise young explorers with the plants and animals that are waking all around them.
$9 per person
Course Code: 51333

Turtle Power - NEW
(Ages 7-9)
Turtles are amazing animals. Some can hide in their shells; some can migrate for thousands of miles! In this program you will participate in hands-on activities to fully understand these incredible creatures!
$9 per person
Course Code: 51642

Walking is FUN for Everyone! - NEW
(Ages 5-6)
Do you like to walk? Learn how to make it fun and enjoyable as a family activity. We will learn safe walking tips, play games, make a craft, and get a little gift from the Walking Fairy. This program is presented by Ridewise.
FREE
Course Code: 51652

Magical Science
(Ages 7-9)
With a dash of science, a pinch of magic, and a little “Abraca-pocus Hocus-cadabra”, you will be prepared to fool and amaze your friends and family on the upcoming April Fools Day! Learn all about how magic and science combine to perform some of the greatest experiments. These magical tricks will keep everyone guessing, wondering, and wanting more!
$10 per person
Course Code: 51163

Out-of-This-World
(Ages 4-6)
Put on your space suit and take an imaginary journey out of this world! Venture beyond the Earth’s atmosphere to discover more about the stars and planets!
$9 per person
Course Code: 51344

Critter Care
(Ages 7-9)
This program is all about taking care of the Environmental Education Center’s critter collection. We will go throughout the building and check out and feed the various frogs, fish, spiders, and other unusual creatures that live at the Environmental Education Center. Lots to learn and lots to see!
$9 per person
Course Code: 51478

Splish, Splash
(Ages 4-6)
April showers bring lots of fun to the Great Swamp. You will need those rubber boots to traverse the trails. We will look for signs of life during this adventurous hike.
$9 per person
Course Code: 51332

Beary Interesting
(Ages 7-9)
There are three species of bears found in the United States. But only one might be seen in your backyard! Learn some “beary” interesting facts, play a game, and find out what you should do if you encounter a bear.
$9 per person
Course Code: 51507

Spring Buggies - NEW
(Ages 4-6)
Grasshoppers, caterpillars, crickets, and butterflies! These are just a few of the insects you will discover in this program. Come to the Environmental Education Center to spend the evening outdoors with a Naturalist to find and study these amazing creatures!
$9 per person
Course Code: 51641

Skeleton Mystery
(Ages 7-9)
Bones have many secrets that are waiting for us to find. We will look at skulls, femurs, ulnas, hips, and teeth and learn how to identify different animals by their bones. See if you can create a full skeleton with a set of bones that is given to you. We will take a hike and look for any remains that may still be on the trails.
$9 per person
Course Code: 51287

Survival of the Fittest
(Ages 4-6)
WATCH OUT! You might become somebody else’s lunch in these predator prey games. Stay on your toes and find out what is needed to survive in the animal kingdom.
$9 per person
Course Code: 51346

Fungus Among Us
(Ages 7-9)
Mushrooms have an important role in our ecosystem. Come learn about the different types of fungus and why they grow where they do. We will take a hike to search for these decomposers. Taste some mushrooms from the grocery store and decide for yourself if you like them or not.
$9 per person
Course Code: 51291

Rain, Rain Go Away - NEW
(Ages 4-6)
Perhaps you have sung this tune before? Well, today we want the rain! Rain is an important element for our spring season. From raindrops to rainbows, have fun playing games, understanding the wet weather, and perhaps splashing in some puddles for a greater appreciation of everything rain!
$9 per person
Course Code: 51639

Wonder Worms
(Ages 7-9)
They have no shovels or pick axes but these amazing creatures move through the soil almost as easily as we walk on land. Without them our soil would be in big trouble. Join a Naturalist, as we get up close and personal with worms.
$9 per person
Course Code: 51431

Recycle Fever
(Family and Friends)
Have you ever had spring fever? Well, try recycling fever! Do your part to help Mother Earth remain healthy by making some interesting and fun crafts with recyclable materials. Just think, you can clean up your house, the environment, and have fun too!
$10 per person
Course Code: 51137

Mega Mammals - NEW
(Ages 4-6)
Mammals of all shapes and sizes exist in the world. This program will focus on the larger species of mammals and how interesting they truly are. Through activities, crafts, stories, and games your child will go home with a good understanding of natures mega mammals!
$9 per person
Course Code: 51637

The Age of Aquarium
(Ages 7-9 with parent)
Want to learn how to set up your own aquarium? Then this is the program for you! First we will take a walk into the swamp and see how nature does it. Then we will put together our own fresh water tank. Price of program includes tank, pond study instruction, and a Siamese fighting fish.
$20 per pair
Course Code: 51425

Fledging Fun
(Ages 4-6)
Calling all little birdies! Our feathered friends are very busy this time of year. Learn what is going on through activities, a craft, and a hike.
$9 per person
Course Code: 51330

Tree Time
(Ages 7-9)
Trees can be tall, trees can be tan. Can you tell which tree is which? Take a walk with a Naturalist to discover the differences between the trees that surround us. Collect leaves from each tree and create your own tree ID book to take home.
$9 per person
Course Code: 51342

Consume Green
(Family and Friends)
Have you been thinking about reducing your ecological footprint, but you are not sure where to start? Come to the Environmental Education Center to learn how to get started! We will discuss shopping principles, wholesome ingredients and ingredients to be wary of, and “green” lingo. Kudos for making some changes for both yourself and Mother Earth!
$7 per person
Course Code: 51506

Colors of Nature
(Ages 4-6)
Join a Naturalist to explore the plants, animals, and natural things that are richly hued for a reason and that brighten up this dreary season. Blue whales, red pandas, black-capped chickadees, and green turtles are the stars, with many more!
$9 per person
Course Code: 51268

Fly with Me!
(Ages 7-9)
Brisk spring winds just cry out for kites! In this class we will build and fly a variety of flying objects such as a boomerang, kite, and paper bats! Be prepared to soar as we take flight on this spring day at Lord Stirling Park. Come and join the fun!
$15 per person
Course Code: 51429

Animal Dance
(Ages 4-6)
Mating season has begun and the animals are busy dancing. Learn why animals dance and try practicing some of their moves. We will look at the costumes some animals wear for their dances and create one of your own. Put on your groove and come dance the afternoon away!
$9 per person
Course Code: 51276

Eye of Newt and Toe of Frog - NEW
(Ages 7-9)
Splash into the world of vernal pools! Vernal pools are these amazing little pools of water that only exist for short amounts of time. Find out who lives there and why before they dry up! Rubber boots are a must.
$9 per person
Course Code: 51646

Learn to Compost - NEW
(Family and Friends)
What do banana peels, apple cores, and orange rinds all have in common? They can all be composted! Composting is good for your yard and garden, good for the environment, easy to do, and it can be fun for the whole family! Bring your family to the Environmental Education Center to learn how to compost at home!
FREE
Course Code: 51643

SUMMER SCIENCE FUN
(Ages 7–12)

Wow! Look what is happening in the Swamp during the summer for children ages 7–12 who are interested in science, the environment, and the natural world. The Environmental Education Center in Lord Stirling Park is the perfect location for programs related to all of these interests. Four two-week sessions are offered for each age group: 7-9 and 10-12. Each session has its own title; however, many themes and activities overlap. It is highly recommended that for a child’s highest level of enjoyment and experience, participation should be limited to two sessions per child. A child must meet the minimum age requirements by the first day of the session into which he/she is enrolled.

For more information about these programs please go to our website, www.somersetcountyparks.org Naturalists Programs or call the Environmental Education Center at 908 766-2489.

Payment in full is due at registration; payment is non-refundable and non-transferable. VISA, MasterCard, Discover, Amex or cash/check are accepted.

Post-program Extended Care Option is available for all sessions. Children may stay until 5:30pm for an additional fee per session (daily rates are not available). Fee for first session (June 28 – July 9) is $77; all other sessions are $85. Enrollment in the extended care option by June 1 is necessary in order to schedule adequate staffing.

Xtreme Adventure
(Ages 13-15)
Save these dates!
Xtreme Adventure is back and better than ever!

Time to turn off those video games and computers! Disconnect from electronics and let nature reconnect you to your wild side! Challenge yourself to an unforgettable adventure! Meet new friends or bring the old, two Environmental Education Center Naturalists are sure to teach you how to crank up the fun factor! No experience necessary, all you need is a will for adventure!

Day trips may include hiking the Appalachian Trail, swimming in glacial lakes, splashing around waterfalls, rock climbing, kayaking, white water rafting, and an overnight Sedge Island experience clamming and snorkeling in Barnegat Bay! All “extreme” equipment will be provided, but participants are expected to pack a lunch and snacks.

Day Trip dates: Tuesdays, July 12, 19, and August 2, 9,16
Overnight Trip: Tuesday, July 26 to Wednesday July 27

Register for one trip or for all trips! Prices will vary from $25 to $225 per trip depending on the specific activity. Registration begins Saturday, May 14.

For more information please call 908 766-2489 x326 or e-mail cspringer@scparks.org.
AWESIM Saturdays