Looking for something for the kids to do during the depth of summer vacation? Sign them up for the Kansas Wetlands Education Center summer programs held Thursdays in July, from July 2 through July 16 and summer day camps held June 26, July 10 and July 20, 22 and 24.
Summer programs are offered at two times: 10-11 a.m. for children ages 4 to 7, and 2-3 p.m. for children ages 8 to 12. Children age 7 and younger must be accompanied by an adult. Registration deadline is three days before the class. There is a maximum limit of 20 children per class and a minimum of six. Although there is no program charge, donations for supplies are appreciated.
To register for a program, or for more information, call 1-877-243-9268.
“Mighty Moths” takes place July 2, with registration deadline of June 29. Kids will enter the world of moths, where darkness rules but light attracts. From subtle shades of browns and grays, to bright yellows and blues, moths can be as colorful as butterflies. Participants will learn how silk is made from moth cocoons, play a moth game and make a moth craft.
Participants discover the animal world’s master weavers and masons, as we investigate birds’ nests and bee combs in “Protecting the Nest Egg, July 9, (register by July 6). Participants will search for bird nests; make their own nest and test it.
Kids will encounter a variety of fish living in Cheyenne Bottoms, from catfish to fathead minnows, during “Something’s Fishy, July 16, (register by July 13). Learn how they survive their underwater world, search for fish in the KWEC’s pond and make your own fish to take home.
In conjunction with the Great Bend Recreation Center, KWEC offers several day camp opportunities. Registration and fees are made through the Rec Center.
During aquatic camp, June 26, children discover a whole new world under the water’s surface, as they find animals ranging from macro-invertebrates (adult and immature insects) to frogs and crayfish. We’ll use several sampling techniques to collect specimens, then identify them and learn interesting facts about them. As always, the kids will also make a related craft, enjoy a hands-on snack and just have fun.
During this year’s naturalist camp on July 10, kids will explore the “nature of color”. Using items found in nature, like butterfly wings, feathers and flowers, participants will investigate color and light through experiments and observation. In addition to making a rainbow scope, participants will decorate a nature camp T-shirt to take home.
Participants in the science morning camps, July 20, 22 and 24, will explore insects, mammals and reptiles and amphibians.