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 that will begin July 7 and run through July 28.
Developed for children ages four through sixth grade, one-hour programs will be offered at no charge, with age breakdowns of four to seven meeting from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. and eight to 12 meeting from 2 to 3 p.m. Children age seven and younger must be accompanied by an adult.
Programs include lots of hands-on learning, with trips outside if at all possible. Please dress children in old clothes and shoes and bring sunscreen, insect repellant and water. Each program will include activities, games and/or a craft and sometimes a story. Programs are presented at no charge, but donations for supplies are appreciated.
There is no minimum number for programs but the maximum capacity is 20 per class. Pre-registration is required by calling the Center at 620-786-7456 or toll free, 877-243-9268. Registration deadlines are one week before the class.
Programs, dates and registration deadlines are listed below.
“Dancing Dragonflies” - July 7, with registration by July 1. The aerial antics of dragonflies are matched by their power as predators of the air. Discover the two very different worlds dragonflies live in as we search for them above and below the water and make your very own dancing dragonfly to take home.
“Dog Days of Summer” - July 14, with registration by July 9. From the rare black-footed ferret to the burrowing owl, many creatures depend upon the prairie dog and the habitat their “towns” create. Participants will investigate who shares prairie dog digs and make a nesting critter chain. 
“The Itsy Bitsy Spider ” -July 21, with registration by July 15. Feared and misunderstood, spiders are fascinating creatures that create engineering marvels and complete amazing physical feats. Join us in a search for spiders and make a web.
“What’s in the Soil?” - July 28, with registration by July 22. The soil below us is a complex, interesting system with millions of inhabitants. Learn what is living under the ground we walk on, make an edible soil profile, and get an up close look at dirt.