Things to Do
For Kids and Teens
Back to Things to DoFor Kids & Teens
The following programs are designed to meet the needs of school-age children in a safe outdoor setting. All programs require preregistration and follow Cincinnati Nature Center's COVID Program Safety Protocol. Please register online well in advance of the class start date to ensure placement.
As of August 23, 2021, masks are required in all our buildings for all vaccinated and unvaccinated people. Masks are not required outdoors or under pavilions and tents.
Click on the program dates for pricing, registration information, and full descriptions.
CLICK HERE to view and sign up for Children's Saturday Programs.
CLICK HERE to view the Events & Programs Calendar.
CLICK HERE to sign up and be notified for various upcoming programs.
Life Under a Log in the Nature PlayScape
Saturday, September 25, 10-11:30am
Join the search for the little creatures that call old logs home! Borrow our naturalist’s bug catchers, magnifying glasses and shovels and head out into the PlayScape to see what you can find. We’ll also make a special critter craft to take home. Members free; nonmember adult $9 and nonmember child $4 (includes daily admission).
Wild With My Child
Thursday, September 30, 9:30-10:15 am
Thursday, September 30, 10-10:45 am
Saturday, October 2, 9:30-10:15 am
Saturday, October 2, 10-10:45 am
During this self-paced discovery program, young children and their caregivers will explore nature together through multiple senses and outdoor exploration. Meander the trail and visit naturalists along the way for play experiences. Best suited for children ages 1-5 with a caregiver. Member adult $5 and member child $5; nonmember adult $10 and nonmember child $6 (includes daily admission).
Youth Conservation Summit
The Next in Nature teen group at the Nature Center will host the 3rd annual Youth Conservation Summit. The online summit is a great way for youth ages 13 - 18 to get involved in conservation, learn important planning and presentation skills, and connect with other like-minded teens devoted to making a difference. For more information, go to www.NextInNature.org.
Mindfulness in Nature for Youths
Monday, October 11, 4:30-6:30 pm
The change is seasons can be a time for reflection and growth. We’ll explore nature as a de-stressor as well as inspiration for personal discovery and goal setting. We’ll explore how seasonal transitions can relate back to our own lives. Most appropriate for youth ages 13-18. Member child $5; nonmember child $5 (includes daily admission).
Animal Bone Mysteries in the Nature PlayScape
Saturday, October 23, 10-11:30 am
Pop out to the Nature PlayScape to learn all about animal bones and skulls! Check out some of our most mysterious bone specimens and then try your hand at excavating bones in our digging area. Members free; nonmember adult $9 and nonmember child $4 (includes daily admission).
Nighttime Trail Fest (For Kids!)
Spiders, bats, and bones, oh my! Don your costumes for this non-spooky woodland Halloween adventure. Enjoy on-trail nature crafts, activities, and festive treats as the sun sets on the autumn forest. Members $8; nonmembers $8 (includes daily admission).
Homeschool Field Trip: Under Our Feet
Tuesday, November 2, 9:30-11:30 am
Explore the rock and soil under our feet with a naturalist, including a hike to the stream. We'll unearth fossils, examine how our land changes, and dig into what our soil is made of. Members $7; nonmembers $11 (includes daily admission).
S’mores in the Nature PlayScape
It’s never too late in the year to enjoy s’mores! Come to the Nature PlayScape to make a free campfire treat and get fueled up to play. Members free; nonmember adult $9 and nonmember child $4 (includes daily admission).