Educational Public Programs for Children
A guide to the seasonal programs offered at the Environmental Education Center is published in January, May, and September each year by the Courier News, and mailed to individuals on our mailing list. If you wish to be added to our list, you may call the Center at 908 766-2489. Please be aware that program maximum enrollment is met quickly; we advise you register as soon as possible in accordance with the registration dates.
Programs are age-range specific in order to ensure full enrichment for each child. The child must be the minimum age and no older than the maximum age listed on the date the program is offered. We appreciate your cooperation.
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
| EEC-3 |
Wednesday, March 16 |
| |
4:00pm-5:30pm |
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
| EEC-13 |
Wednesday, March 16 |
| |
4:00pm-5:30pm |
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
| EEC-7 |
Thursday, March 17 |
| |
4:00pm-5:30pm |
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
| EEC-1 |
Thursday, March 17 |
| |
4:00pm-5:00pm |
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
| EEC-6 |
Tuesday, March 22 |
| |
4:00pm-5:30pm |
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
| EEC-1 |
Tuesday, March 22 |
| |
4:00pm-5:30pm |
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
| EEC-2 |
Wednesday, March 30 |
| |
4:00pm-5:00pm |
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
| EEC-9 |
Wednesday, March 30 |
| |
4:00pm-5:30pm |
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
| EEC-4 |
Thursday, March 31 |
| |
4:00pm-5:30pm |
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
| EEC-4 |
Thursday, March 31 |
| |
4:00pm-5:30pm |
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
| EEC-8 |
Wednesday, April 6 |
| |
4:00pm-5:30pm |
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
| EEC-2 |
Wednesday, April 6 |
| |
4:00pm-5:30pm |
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
| EEC-1 |
Tuesday, April 12 |
| |
4:00pm-5:30pm |
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
| EEC-6 |
Tuesday, April 12 |
| |
4:00pm-5:30pm |
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
| EEC-4 |
Wednesday, April 20 |
| |
4:00pm-5:30pm |
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
| EEC-2 |
Wednesday, April 20 |
| |
4:00pm-5:30pm |
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
| EEC-1 |
Tuesday, April 26 |
| |
4:00pm-5:30pm |
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
| EEC-5 |
Tuesday, April 26 |
| |
4:00-5:30pm |
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
| EEC-13 |
Tuesday, April 26 |
| |
4:00pm-5:30pm |
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
| EEC-3 |
Thursday, May 5 |
“Elephants” |
| |
4:00pm-5:30pm |
|
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
| EEC-16 |
Thursday, May 5 |
| |
4:00-5:30pm |
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
| EEC-5 |
Wednesday, May 11 |
| |
4:00pm-5:30pm |
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
| EEC-7 |
Wednesday, May 11 |
| |
4:00pm-5:30pm |
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
| EEC-2 |
Wednesday, May 11 |
| |
4:00pm-5:30pm |
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
| EEC-11 |
Thursday, May 19 |
“Beautiful Blue” |
| |
4:00pm-5:30pm |
|
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
| EEC-10 |
Thursday May 19 |
| |
4:00pm-5:30pm |
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
| EEC-5 |
Tuesday, May 31 |
| |
4:00pm-5:30pm |
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
| EEC-1 |
Tuesday, May 31 |
| |
4:00pm-5:30pm |
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
| EEC -2 |
Tuesday, May 31 |
| |
4:00pm-5:30pm |
|
Tot Trek
(Ages infant-3 with parent)
Get your strollers ready and your sturdy shoes tied up tight! We will head out on the trails of Lord Stirling Park for a brisk walk, with breaks here and there for a snack, a story, and to admire the natural world.
$10 per pair/$5 per additional child
Course Code: 51214
| EEC-25 |
Thursday, March 24 |
| |
10:00am-11:00am |
| EEC-26 |
Friday, April 29 |
| |
10:00am-11:00am |
Groundhogs Galore!
(Ages infant-5 with parent)
Groundhogs are fascinating creatures surrounded with lots of folklore. Through activities, crafts, and stories your child will learn about these cute harbingers of spring.
$10 per pair/$5 per additional child
Course Code: 51547
| EEC-2 |
Wednesday, February 2 |
| |
10:30am-11:30am |
Cabin Fever Hike
(Ages infant-5 with parent)
Tired of being stuck inside? Need some fresh air? Join us for a winter wonderland walk to clean out the cobwebs and put the spring back in your step. Bundle up the kids and head out!
$10 per pair/$5 per additional child
Course Code: 51328
| EEC-5 |
Wednesday, February 9 |
| |
10:30am-11:30am |
Story Hour
(Ages infant-5 with parent)
Come and listen to a naturalist read a story, relax in our comfortable library, and take a short walk. A simple way to spend some quality time with your young one while enjoying wonderful environmentally oriented books.
FREE
Course Code: 51628
| EEC-5 |
Saturday, February 12 |
| |
10:30am-11:30am |
| EEC-6 |
Saturday, March 12 |
| |
10:30am-11:30am |
| EEC-7 |
Saturday, April 16 |
| |
10:30am-11:30am |
| EEC-8 |
Saturday, May 7 |
| |
10:30am-11:30am |
Natirar Ramble
(Ages infant-5 with parent)
Little ones will enjoy this picturesque stroller-friendly walk through the open fields and along the Raritan River in one of Somerset County’s newest parks, Natirar, located in Peapack-Gladstone. Bring a snack and a sense of adventure as we explore this natural area.
$10 per pair/$5 per additional child
Course Code: 51392
| NAT-6 |
Thursday, April 7 |
| |
11:00am-Noon |
Squirmy Wormies!
(Ages infant-5 with parent)
Wiggly worms are very important for many reasons. They make the soil much better for other plants and animals, and are a tasty treat for birds, frogs, and other critters. Learn more about worms and create a habitat for your very own pet worm!
$10 per pair/$5 per additional child
Course Code: 51209
| EEC-12 |
Thursday, April 21 |
| |
10:00am-11:00am |
Fields of Fun - NEW
(Ages infant-5 with parent)
There’s an explosion of color and life near the river in spring! Little ones will have fun toddling, running, and exploring the fields of Duke Island Park with a Naturalist. With the help of books, bubbles, and balls, they will learn about spring happenings in this river park.
$10 per pair/$5 per additional child
Course Code: 51644
| DIP-1 |
Thursday, May 26 |
| |
11:00am-Noon |
Nature Hikes for Tykes
(Ages 2-3 with parent)
It is never too early to begin exploring nature. Bring your tyke for a hike and activities that focus on using the five senses. All classes will consist of themed hikes, crafts, and hands-on activities.
$10 per pair/$5 per additional child
Course Code: 51413
| EEC-85 |
Wednesday, February 16 |
“Bear Feet and Tales” |
| |
10:30am-11:30am |
|
| EEC-86 |
Wednesday, March 16 |
“Star Bright” |
| |
10:30am-11:30am |
|
Mini Mammals
(Ages 2-3 with parent)
Small mammals are not only cute, but fascinating creatures. Through activities, crafts, and stories you child will learn about special mini-mammals.
$10 per pair/$5 per additional child
Course Code: 51420
| EEC-24 |
Thursday, February 24 |
“Playin’ Possum” |
| |
10:30am-11:30am |
|
| EEC-25 |
Thursday, March 3 |
“Shhh! Skunks!” |
| |
10:30am-11:30am |
|
Captivating Critters!
(Ages 3-5 with parent)
Come and see some truly cool critters and learn what helps them to survive in nature. Our guest list includes magnificent millipedes, Rosie the red rump tarantula, a gorgeous gecko named Gil, hissing cockroaches from Madagascar, and a special surprise guest. Join a Naturalist to learn what makes each animal special and important.
$10 per pair/$5 per additional child
Course Code: 51009
| EEC-10 |
Friday, February 18 |
| |
10:30am-11:30am |
Wild Earth Tour (W.E.T.)
(Ages 3-5 with parent)
Play rainforest bingo, bowl for penguins, and build a cactus as we take an imaginary trek to the far reaches of the globe. Bring your sense of adventure!
$10 per pair/$5 per additional child
Course Code: 51579
| EEC-8 |
Friday, March 11 |
“Jungle Jamboree” |
| |
1:30pm-2:30pm |
| EEC-9 |
Friday, March 18 |
“Polar Adventure” |
| |
1:30pm-2:30pm |
| EEC-10 |
Thursday, March 24 |
“Desert Delight” |
| |
1:30pm-2:30pm |
Jaws and Claws!
(Ages 3-5 with parent)
Animal jaws and claws can be large, small, sharp or smooth! But every animal has a reason for these features. Come to the Environmental Education Center and see for yourself!
$10 per pair/$5 per additional child
Course Code: 51000
| EEC-6 |
Monday, March 28 |
| |
10:30am-11:30am |
Splish, Splash!
(Ages 3-5 with parent)
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.
$10 per pair/$5 per additional child
Course Code: 51332
| EEC-7 |
Wednesday, April 6 |
| |
10:30am-11:30am |
Little Green Thumbs
(Ages 3-5 with parent)
Spring is upon us and it is time to start growing our garden plants. Bring seeds to life and begin growing beautiful plants even while it is still cold outside. Come join us as we plant basil, rosemary, thyme, and parsley so that you can spice up any meal! In two weeks, you will have young seedling plants for your indoor or outdoor garden.
$10 per pair/$5 per additional child
Course Code: 51351
| EEC-4 |
Saturday, April 9 |
| |
10:00am-11:00am |
Animal Record Holders
(Ages 3-5 with parent)
Biggest, smallest, fastest, slowest; animals hold records too! But who holds which record? Challenge yourself against these animal Olympians!
$10 per pair/$5 per additional child
Course Code: 51001
| EEC-4 |
Wednesday, April 27 |
| |
10:30am-11:30am |
Darling Dragons and Dainty Damsels!
(Ages 3-5 with parent)
Have you ever wondered what was swimming with the fishes and spying on the frogs? Join a Naturalist to get to the bottom of this often asked question and find out how fun it is to play in swamp water. Not for the faint of heart! Just kidding. Program includes a story and outdoor exploration.
$10 per pair/$5 per additional child
Course Code: 51416
| EEC-10 |
Friday, May 6 |
| |
10:00am-11:30am |
Spring Squishers
(Ages 3-5 with parent)
It’s raining, it’s pouring! But we are not snoring, we are squishing! Don your rain boots and get ready to get muddy! We will take a walk out to one of our fantastic ponds in Lord Stirling Park to investigate what is happening down in the slippery-slimy mud. A sweet “mud” treat will be part of the fun.
$10 per pair/$5 per additional child
Course Code: 51208
| EEC-18 |
Friday, May 13 |
| |
10:30am-11:30am |
A Hummingbird’s Life
(Ages 3-5 with parent)
Spring brings new life to the swamp. Our summer birds return after being away for the winter. One little bird “flys” its heart out to come north and lay eggs - the hummingbird. We will look at the life of a hummingbird and try some of their challenges.
$10 per pair/$5 per additional child
Course Code: 51275
| EEC-5 |
Tuesday, May 24 |
| |
10:30am-11:30am |
Tree House Gang
(Ages 3-5)
Bring your little ones to the Environmental Education Center for fun science and nature programming. These afternoon classes will enhance their learning by going outside for hikes, hands-on activities, meeting live animals, and creating one cool craft to take home at the end of the month. Each month has a different theme. A snack is provided and please dress for the weather.
$50 for 3 day session per person
$65 for 4 day session per person
Course Code: 51488
| EEC-20 |
Tuesday, February 1, 8, 15, 22 |
| |
12:45pm-3:15pm |
| EEC-21 |
Monday, February 7, 14, 28 |
| |
12:45pm-3:15pm |
| EEC-22 |
Tuesday, March 1, 8, 22, 29 |
| |
12:45pm-3:15pm |
| EEC-23 |
Monday, March 7, 14, 21, 28 |
| |
12:45pm-3:15pm |
| EEC-24 |
Monday, April 4, 11, 18, 25 |
| |
12:45pm-3:15pm |
| EEC-25 |
Tuesday, April 5, 12, 19, 26 |
| |
12:45pm-3:15pm |
| EEC-26 |
Monday, May 2, 9, 16, 23 |
| |
12:45pm-3:15pm |
| EEC-27 |
Tuesday, May 3, 10, 17, 24 |
| |
12:45pm-3:15pm |
Egg-stravaganza
(Ages 3-6 with parent)
What do bees, turtles, toads, snakes, birds, and butterflies all have in common? Eggs! Learn all about eggs and why they are so special. We will look at the different colors, shapes, and sizes of eggs. Join us for egg coloring with natural dyes, an egg-stra special snack, and an Easter egg hunt!
$20 per pair/$10 per additional child
Course Code: 51126
| EEC-19 |
Sunday, April 17 |
| |
10:00am-Noon |
| EEC-20 |
Sunday, April 17 |
| |
1:30pm-3:30pm |
To Bird with Love
(Ages 4-6 with parent)
Feed the ones you love this Valentine’s Day. Join a Naturalist to learn all about some of our fine feathered friends and what food they like to eat. With mom’s or dad’s help, you will be able to create a charming treat for your backyard friends.
$20 per pair/$10 per additional child
Course Code: 51135
| EEC-8 |
Sunday, February 13 |
| |
2:00pm-3:30pm |
Who’s Awake? Me, too!
(Ages 4-6 with parent)
Come learn about who’s awake in the forest on these early evening walks. We will start off with a brief story inside and then head out for a brief walk outside.
$10 per pair/$5 per additional child
Course Code: 51264
| EEC-10 |
Friday, May 13 |
“Nocturnal Pond Life” |
| |
7:00pm-8:00pm |
|
Colonial Craze - NEW
(Ages 4-6 with parent)
Join a Naturalist on this fun adventure through the trails of Colonial Park. In celebration of spring, kids will engage in imaginary games, go on a nature scavenger hunt, and revel in springtime happenings. Afterward, take advantage of this great park and head to the innovative playground for more shenanigans!
$10 per pair/$5 per additional child
Course Code: 51645
| CP-1 |
Sunday, June 5 |
| |
1:00pm-2:30pm |
Animal Legends
(Ages 4-6)
Coyote, Bear, Wolf, Raven…Many animals have been the subject of stories, legends, myths, and fables. Some of the tales are a little hard to believe, while others might make you wonder. Stories and a craft will help you decide fact from fiction.
$10 per person
Course Code: 51204
| EEC-24 |
Thursday, February 3 |
“Mice” |
| |
4:00pm-5:30pm |
|
Winter Ponding - NEW
(Ages 7-9)
Winter’s weather creates a much different environment for the swamp’s pond critters, but much is going on beneath the snow and ice. Join a Naturalist as we explore life in the ponds during winter. Dress with the weather in mind!
$9 per person
Course Code: 52005
| EEC-1 |
Wednesday, February 23 |
| |
4:00pm-5:30pm |
Chew on This!
(Ages 7-9)
Did you know that four out of five Naturalists recommend learning about bubble gum? Join us as we chew, blow, and pop our way through the history of gum. Then we will conduct bubble gum science experiments. To top it off we will make home-made bubble gum for your chewing pleasure. Get ready to exercise your jaw!
$15 per person
Course Code: 51162
| EEC-13 |
Sunday, February 27 |
| |
1:00pm-3:00pm |
Frog Blob
(Ages 7-9)
Did you ever wonder how a prince becomes a frog? Well, it all starts with a little mud, melting snow, dripping ice, and a nice quiet location - or the Great Swamp at the end of winter. Join a Naturalist as we search for frog blobs, tadpoles, and those wonderful hip-hopping creatures we call frogs. Dress with the weather in mind!
$12 per person
Course Code: 51430
| EEC-10 |
Saturday, March 19 |
| |
1:00pm-3:00pm |
Seed Starters - NEW
(Ages 7-9)
Spring is upon us and it is time to start growing our garden plants. Bring seeds to life and begin growing beautiful plants even while it is still cold outside. Come join us as we plant basil, rosemary, thyme, and parsley so that you can spice up any meal! In two weeks, you will have young seedling plants for your indoor or outdoor garden.
$9 per person
Course Code: 52006
| EEC-1 |
Saturday, April 2 |
| |
10:00am-11:30am |
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.
Eco-Explorers - Click here for brochure!
(Ages 7-9)
Registration on-line and walk-ins begin January 22 at 9:00am; phone-ins begin January 23 at 9:00am.
Get ready for some serious summertime fun! We will be exploring nature while learning, creating new friendships, and playing lots of games. Each session is two weeks of day-long programming, where participants can canoe, hike, and embark on exciting day trips. Eco-Explorers is based at the Somerset County Park Commission Environmental Education Center at Lord Stirling Park. For more information, please call 908 766-2489 ext. 331.
$648 per person
Course Code: 50101
EEC-13 Monday, June 27-Friday, July 8 “Swamp Scientists” (No program on Monday, July 4) 8:30am-4:30pm
$720 per person
Course Code: 50101
EEC-14 Monday, July 11-Friday, July 22 “E is for Earth” 8:30am-4:30pm
$720 per person
Course Code: 50101
EEC-15 Monday, July 25-Friday, August 5 “Creature Feature” 8:30am-4:30pm
$720 per person
Course Code: 50101
EEC-16 Monday, August 8-Friday, August 19 “Forest Fanatics” 8:30am-4:30pm
AWESIM KIDS Click here for brochure!
(Ages 10-12)
Registration on-line and walk-ins begin January 22 at 11:00am; phone-ins begin January 23 at 9:00am.
Animals, Wetlands, Environmental Science, and Incredible Minds! The AWESIM program will be starting its 17th summer season in June of 2011 and it will be better than ever! AWESIM Kids is a unique combination of fun, learning, and summer vacation relaxation. We will spend our days boating, hiking, learning about local wildlife, meeting interesting professionals, and going on unique day trips. Please refer to the program brochure for specific sleepover dates.
For more information, please call 908 766-2489 ext. 330.
$648 per person
Course Code: 50102
EEC-13 Monday, June 27-Friday, July 8 “H Meets O” (No program on Monday, July 4)
8:30am-4:30pm
$720 per person
Course Code: 50102
EEC-14 Monday, July 11-Friday, July 22 “Field, Forest, & Farm ” 8:30am-4:30pm
$720 per person
Course Code: 50102
EEC-15 Monday, July 25-Friday, August 5 “Life on Earth”
8:30am-4:30pm
$720 per person
Course Code: 50101
EEC-16 Monday, August 8-Friday, August 19 “Power Plants”
8:30am-4:30pm
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Home School Offerings - NEW
(Ages 7-12)
Get ready for the second half of an exciting school year. We are offering a series of environmental education programs developed especially for homeschoolers ages 7-12. Program sessions about environmental topics are offered once a month. Each session has a hands-on focus and we will be using various field tools as we explore our topics and learn more about life in the Great Swamp.
Weather permitting, a portion of all programs will be held outdoors.
$12 per person
Course Code: 51648
| EEC-1 |
Thursday, January 27 |
“Winter Bird Basics” |
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1:00pm-3:00pm |
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| EEC-2 |
Wednesday, February 16 |
“Frozen Forests” |
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1:00pm-3:00pm |
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| EEC-3 |
Wednesday, March 30 |
“Growing Organic Food” |
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1:00pm-3:00pm |
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| EEC-4 |
Wednesday, April 20 |
“Vernal Pool Hop-penings” |
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1:00pm-3:00pm |
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| EEC-5 |
Thursday, May 12 |
“Pondering Life” |
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1:00pm-3:00pm |
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| EEC-6 |
Thursday, June 2 |
“NJ Butterflies and Moths” |
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1:00pm-3:00pm |
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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 |
AWESIM Saturdays
(Ages 10-13)
Animals, Wetlands, Environmental Science, Imagination, and your Mind are the focus of this fun educational monthly program. These Saturday sessions are an extension of our popular summer program. Register for one or all of the sessions.
$18 per person
Course Code: 51047
| EEC-5 |
Saturday, February 12 |
“Trees, Sugaring, and Tasty Treats” |
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1:00pm-4:00pm |
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| EEC-6 |
Saturday, March 12 |
“Seed Starters” |
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1:00pm-4:00pm |
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| EEC-7 |
Saturday, April 30 |
“Alive at the EEC” |
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1:00pm-4:00pm |
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| EEC-8 |
Saturday, May 14 |
“Critter Care” |
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1:00pm-4:00pm |
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| EEC-9 |
Saturday, June 4 |
“AWESIM Art” |
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1:00pm-4:00pm |
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The Green Team
(Ages 12-15)
Do you need to fulfill your community service requirement for school? Is natural science a subject you find interesting? Do you like the outdoors? Is the Great Swamp a place you like to visit? If so, join us at the Environmental Education Center for educational and fun volunteering opportunities. Pre-registration is required.
FREE
Course Code: 51438
| EEC-71 |
Saturday, February 19 |
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1:00pm-4:00pm |
| EEC-72 |
Saturday, March 26 |
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1:00pm-4:00pm |
| EEC-73 |
Saturday, April 16 |
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1:00pm-4:00pm |
| EEC-74 |
Saturday, May 28 |
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1:00pm-4:00pm |
| EEC-75 |
Saturday, June 11 |
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1:00pm-4:00pm |
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MOST CLASSES ARE CONDUCTED OUTSIDE,
SO PLEASE DRESS ACCORDINGLY
• Program Registration Application (pdf)
• Monthly Newsletter (pdf)
• Calendar (pdf)
PROGRAM OFFERINGS
• Program Registration Information & Locations
• Educational Public Programs for Children
• Educational Public Programs for Adults & Families
• Garden Discovery Tours
• Canoe & Kayak Programs & Trips
• Cross-Country Skiing
• Birthday Parties
• School Group Programs
• Scouts/Other Group Programs
• Maple Sugaring
PARK FEATURES
• Special Events
• Exhibits
• Workshops
• Family Program Series
• Trips
• Library
• Trails
• Natural History Book & Gift Shop
• Room Rental
E-mail the EEC any questions or comments |